Selective conformation of cell culturing support layer

摘要

Embodiments described herein relate to in vitro cell culture. Embodiments include a substrate having a support layer that includes support molecules having a first region configured to bind to the substrate and having a photo-responsive region configured to change conformation between at least two conformations. In a first conformation of the photo-responsive region, the support molecules are configured to be more accessible to cells. In a second conformation of the photo-responsive region, the support molecules are configured to be less accessible to cells.

主权项

1. An apparatus for cell culture comprising:
a substrate; a support layer at least partially coating the substrate, the support layer comprised of support molecules having a first region configured to bind to the substrate and having a plurality of photo-responsive regions configured to change conformation responsive to irradiation from at least a first optical energy source, wherein the support molecules are azobenzene compounds having a formula of: wherein R is C8H17 and R′ is OCH2COOH;
wherein in a first conformation of the plurality of photo-responsive regions, the support molecules are in a more hydrophobic state displaying a diazo functional group (N═N) on a top surface of the support molecules configured to be more accessible to cells;wherein in a second conformation of the plurality of photo-responsive regions, the support molecules are in a more hydrophilic state displaying polar groups on the top layer of the support molecules, while the diazo functional group is configured to be less accessible to cells; and an array of optical elements covering substantially all of one surface of the substrate so as to permit irradiation of the support layer, wherein the array of optical elements are operably coupled to the first optical energy source, each of the optical elements of the array of optical elements configured to be operated independently of each other to selectively irradiate the plurality of photo-responsive regions.