Assessment of normal human breast cells (MCF10A cells)–Surface interactions on porous poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS) structures for potential biomedical applications

Biocompatibility stands out as a crucial and fundamental requirement before approval of biomaterials for medical use. The study aimed to evaluate the interaction between normal human breast cells (MCF10A cells) and porous poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS) structures for potential biomedical applications. Preparation and characterization of the PDMS substrate were carried out, followed by the assessment of cell proliferation and fluorescence imaging using an Alamar blue assay and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. The results revealed that initially (at 4 hours post-incubation), there was no notable difference in cell proliferation among the various groups (non-porous PDMS, PDMS_0-150, PDMS_150-250, and PDMS_250500). However, at 48 and 96 hours, a significant increase in cell proliferation was observed in the PDMS_250–500 μm group compared to other groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, the results of the fluorescence microscopy corroborated a substantial enhancement in cell growth and attachment as the porosity of the PDMS substrate increased. However, cells seeded on non-porous PDMS surfaces exhibited a significant decline (P<0.05) in cell growth in both the Alamar blue assay and fluorescence imaging. These findings hold great promise for the creation of surfaces and materials that are specifically designed to influence biological reactions and show potential for a range of biomedical uses.