Characterization of a hyaluronic acid-Arg-Gly-Asp peptide cell attachment matrix.

We have developed a method to modify cross-linked hyaluronic acid with peptides containing the Arg-Gly-Asp sequence. The material created by this process is a three-dimensional porous matrix capable of supporting integrin receptor-mediated cell attachment. Peptide density can be controlled by varying the reaction conditions during peptide immobilization. Following cell attachment, cells actively proliferate and colonize the pores of the matrix. This material should prove useful for the maintenance of cells on a chemically defined three-dimensional substrate or as a scaffold for enhancing tissue repair.