Scaffold functionalization to support a tissue biocompatibility

The aim of this chapter is to illustrate the most applied methods for covalent and non-covalent functionalization of scaffold surface with biomimetic molecules, including bioactive proteins, peptides, and polysaccharides to improve scaffold biocompatibility. Additionally, the main techniques for surface physicochemical characterization are presented together with the commonly used approaches for in vitro testing of biocompatibility. Finally, new perspectives in scaffold surface functionalization and application of functionalized scaffolds are discussed in the conclusions

Quartz Crystal Microbalance With Dissipation Monitoring: A Powerful Method to Predict the in vivo Behavior of Bioengineered Surfaces

The Quartz Crystal Microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) is a tool to measure mass and viscosity in processes occurring at or near surfaces, or within thin films. QCM-D is able to detect extremely small chemical, mechanical, and electrical changes taking place on the sensor surface and to convert them into electrical signals which can be investigated to study dynamic process. Surface nanotopography and chemical composition are of pivotal importance in biomedical applications since interactions of medical devices with the physiological environment are mediated by surface features. This review is intended to provide readers with an up-to-date summary of QCM-D applications in the study of cell behavior and to discuss the future trends for the use of QCM-D as a high-throughput method to study cell/surface interactions overcoming the current challenges in the design of biomedical devices