Cell interactions with perfluoropolyether-based network copolymers

We have investigated the potential of several polymers based on perfluoropolyether (PFPE) macromonomers for use in biomaterial applications. Polymer networks were synthesised from the PFPE macromonomers of increasing chain length and the adhesion and proliferation of corneal, vascular and bone cells was evaluated on these polymers. The polymer surfaces were quite hydrophobic, having sessile air-water contact angles ranging between 96 and 125 degrees. However, these polymers supported the attachment and growth of bovine corneal epithelial and endothelial cells and fibroblasts at 60-100% of the rate of cell growth on the culture substratum, TCPS. Furthermore, the PFPE polymers supported the attachment and growth of vascular endothelial cells (from human umbilical artery) and human bone-derived cells over a 7 day period at an equal level to TCPS. The relationship between the macromonomer chain length (n = 1 to 4) and the ability of the resulting PFPE homopolymer to support the overgrowth of corneal epithelial tissue was also evaluated. The PFPE-containing polymers supported corneal epithelial tissue overgrowth, with the most effective having a performance equivalent to that of TCPS. Tn addition to these homopolymers, copolymers comprising of PFPE and N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) were also synthesised. Surprisingly, the addition of DMAEMA to the PFPE polymer network lead to a reduction in the growth and attachment of corneal epithelial cells and fibroblasts. These results indicate that PFPE-based materials show a potential for use in the development of biomaterials in the ocular, vascular and orthopaedic areas.