Plasma-Assisted Hydrophilization of Cochlear Implant Electrode Array Surfaces Enables Adhesion of Neurotrophin-Secreting Cells

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate plasma treatment for enhancing the biocompatibility of cochlear implant (CI) silicone surfaces, thus allowing colonization with human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) that are known to provide neurotrophic support. Methods: Silicone samples and CI electrode arrays were treated with 4 low-pressure plasmas of different characteristics. The hydrophilicity of plasma-treated and control surfaces as well as the adherence and morphology of hASCs were assessed. Finally, the insertion forces of electrode arrays were determined and the colonization potential of the electrode arrays with hASCs were tested. Results: The hydrophilicity of the silicone surfaces was significantly enhanced after plasma treatment, as was the adherence of hASCs. The characteristic morphology of hASCs was observed when grown on plasma-treated but not on untreated silicone surfaces. The insertion forces of plasma-treated electrode arrays were similar to those of untreated arrays, and the colonization of plasma-treated electrode arrays with hASCs was feasible. Conclusion: Plasma treatment of CI electrode arrays enhances their biocompatibility and allows for the colonization with hASCs that are known to produce neurotrophic factors. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel

A polydopamine peptide coating enables adipose‐derived stem cell growth on the silicone surface of cochlear implant electrode arrays

“…Both size and flexibility of the electrode array have an impact on the insertion forces. The insertion forces measured in a well‐established cochlea model of PD‐treated CIs with and without ASCs and untreated electrode arrays did not differ significantly in this experimental series, and the insertion forces determined by both types of electrode carriers were similar to those found in previous studies . Slightly decreased insertion forces were determined at insertion depth of 20 mm for PD‐coated CIs with cells.…”

“…The insertion forces measured in a well-established cochlea model of PD-treated CIs with and without ASCs and untreated electrode arrays did not differ significantly in this experimental series, and the insertion forces determined by both types of electrode carriers were similar to those found in previous studies. 20,36 Slightly decreased insertion forces were determined at insertion depth of 20 mm for PD-coated CIs with cells. Fluorescence pictures of the PD-coated CIs with cells taken before and after insertion in the scala tympani model showed that only few cells were detached afterwards.…”

Ginsenoside Rg1 and platelet-rich fibrin enhance human breast adipose-derived stem cells function for soft tissue regeneration

“…A three-dimensional, porous collagen sponge is similar to the extracellular matrix, compatible with the human body, and an ideal microenvironment for adhesion, spread, and proliferation of ASCs or MG-63 cells [5–6]. Excellent biocompatibility which can be affected by many factors including drugs, microenvironment, or endocrine changes is a critical requirement for scaffolds in adipose tissue engineering [7–9]. …”

Controlling stem cell fate using cold atmospheric plasma

“…Image was taken when using a handheld plasma device based on piezoelectric direct discharge (PDD) technology. The gaseous plasma jet can be seen exiting the nozzle and spreading over the target surface CAP also endows mechanical improvement of surface, which enhances the adhesion and spreading of MSCs [13] Nitrogen plasma is better than oxygen and air plasma in improving MSCs attachment on gelatin scaffolds [14] CAP modification of PU scaffolds results in differential increments of cell attachment for ESCs and NSCs [15] Nanoscale, rather than microscale, PCL scaffolds attract larger benefits from CAP treatment for MSC adhesion [16] CAP-modified cochlear implant electrode array surface enables colonization of NT-secreting ASCs [17] Promoting stem cell proliferation…”

“…The relevant research priority has shifted in the last several years; the emerging applications use genetically modified stem cells. In the study performed by Schendzielorz et al, CAP-assisted hydrophilization of cochlear implant electrode array surfaces enabled firm colonization of human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) that are known to secrete neurotrophins [17]. This long-term delivery of neurotrophic factors has profound clinical potential for treating inner ear diseases and neurotology conditions.…”