Fast and efficient screening system for new biomaterials in tissue engineering: a model for peripheral nerve regeneration.

The use of three-dimensional biodegradable matrices is one major issue in tissue engineering. Numerous materials, fabrication techniques, and modifications have been used and tested in different areas of tissue engineering recently. But nevertheless, technology is far from being optimized and optimal constructs with bioidentical and mechanical properties have not been described in the literature so far. Hence, there is great demand of new suitable biomaterials for tissue engineering applications. In this study, a fast and efficient screening system for initial testing of biomaterials for cell culture application was developed. The set up for the screening system and the decision criteria applied for the determination of suitability of new materials are presented. Hep-G2 and PC-12 cells were seeded onto different matrices and cultured over a period of 2 weeks. The viability of the cells was monitored via the MTT assay. Cell spreading was investigated by DAPI-staining of cell nuclei. Furthermore, the adhesion of the cells on the different matrices was examined by counting the number of attached cells. With these general assays a classification of materials is possible with regard to their suitability. Optimal cell models must be chosen for the defined applications and at least two cell lines are necessary for a differentiating interpretation.