Cell and tissue behavior on micro-grooved surfaces.

In this review, we discuss substrates and implant surfaces provided with micrometer-sized groove and ridge patterns. Such "microgrooves" influence cell behavior: the cells align themselves, and migrate guided by the surface grooves. This phenomenon is known as "contact guidance". First, cell structure and cell attachment behavior are described. Then techniques for the production of microgrooves are addressed, and a summary is given of a number of previous in-vitro and in-vivo experiments on this subject. Based on the knowledge of cell movement, we suggest a theory involving the dynamics of fibrous cellular components in the filopodium. Finally, future directions for this type of research, and implications for medical and dental implantology, are addressed.