Novel technique in RGD-functionalisation of unstructured and structured inanimate surfaces

Integrin mediated cell adhesion can be mimicked by the tripeptide RGD. In this work, a novel method for immobilization was developed using isothiocyanate-terminated RGD-peptides, which were covalently bound to aminated surfaces. Mouse fibroblasts as well as other cell lines specifically recognised and spread on these RGD-surfaces. Cells rearranged their actin cytoskeleton and formed active focal contacts. A soft-lithography-based microcontact printing was applied to create 2D patterned surfaces.