CHO cells adhering to nitrogen-rich plasma-polymerised ethylene exhibit high production of a specific recombinant protein.

In many industrial applications, inadequate cell attachment can be a limitation, especially when serum-free media are used. Nitrogen-rich plasma-polymerised ethylene (PPE:N) exhibits high concentrations of polar groups that can help to promote the attachment of weakly adherent cell types. Tissue plasminogen activator-producing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, adapted to suspension, were grown in the presence PPE:N flakes and were found to adhere to them. The growth rate was reduced, but cell viability was enhanced and their metabolism was more efficient, with generally higher recombinant protein productivity. Finally, cell adhesion on PPE:N surfaces was found to be independent of integrins, and was probably mediated by certain non-specific interactions with the PPE:N surface.