Alternating gene expression in fibroblasts adhering to multilayers of chitosan and dextran sulfate

The alternating compatibility of fibroblast cells adhering to multilayers of chitosan and dextran sulfate (Dex) on a substrate was analyzed at the gene expression level. A greater number of round-shaped cells adhered to the films with an outermost surface composed of Dex, although the total number of adherent cells was independent of the film surface. Greater expression of heat-shock protein 70B mRNA was demonstrated in cells adhering to films with the Dex surface. It was found that analysis of gene expression was a powerful tool for evaluating the bioactivity of multilayers. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.