Facile oxidation of superaligned carbon nanotube films for primary cell culture and genetic engineering

Abstract

A material that can simultaneously support mammalian cell growth and preserve their physiological function is highly desirable in biomedical research. To meet this need, we fabricated superaligned carbon nanotube (SACNT) thin films and modified their surface using a convenient oxidization method. Our analysis demonstrated that the physical properties of oxidized SACNT films became more biocompatible. It supported the attachment and growth of primary mouse fibroblast cells as well as neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Moreover, when cultured on oxidized SACNT films, neonatal rat cardiomyocytes spread normally and displayed calcium influx. Finally, we showed that, as oxidized SACNT films retained their electrical conductivity, attached cells can be electrotransfected in situ on them. Strong and prolonged expression of green fluorescence proteins (GFPs) or red fluorescence proteins (RFPs) was observed upon cell electroporation on oxidized SACNT films. In summary, our results provide evidence that simple oxidation greatly improved the biocompatibility of carbon nanotube films, which becomes more suitable for future applications in cell and genetic engineering.