FURI | Fall 2020

Characterizing Cellular Response to Topological Features on a Nanoscale Utilizing Monolithic Quartz Contact Guidance Chips

The surface that cells grow on has a significant impact on their behavior. Studies have proven that cells orient themselves relative to topographical features even down to nanoscales, a phenomenon known as contact guidance. A micro/nanotechnology-based biotool called a monolithic quartz contact guidance chip aims to provide a standardized multiplexed testing platform for contact guidance studies. The research team will characterize the dynamic behavior of cells imaged over time and analyze the movement of cells on grooved substrates of differing depths in comparison to a control surface. Contact guidance has the potential to improve medical implants or expedite wound healing.