Plasma-treated collagen functionalized with chondroitin sulfate as bioactive and nanostructured extracellular matrix mimics.

Cell microenvironment contains a plethora of information that influences cell modulation. Indeed, the extracellular matrix plays a central role in tissue development. Reproducing the cell-extracellular matrix crosstalk able to recapitulate both physical and biochemical signals is crucial to obtain functional tissue models or regenerative strategies. Here, a combined method is proposed to easily functionalize collagen surface films, tailoring morphological properties. Oxygen nonthermal plasma treatment and glyco-conjugation with chondroitin sulfate are used to modify surface properties. It results in higher adhesion, proliferation and morphological organization of U87 glioblastoma cells. Our finding suggests new promising strategies for the development of collagen-based biomaterials, which can be employed for advanced models.