Interaction of endothelial cells with methacrylic terpolymer biomaterials.

Abstract

A biomaterial system with tunable mechanical properties was synthesized through random copolymerization of hexyl methacrylate, methyl methacrylate, and methacrylic acid. The composition, molecular weight, water absorption, glass transition temperature, and tensile properties of the polymer system were characterized, and the biocompatibility of the material was demonstrated by the ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells to adhere, proliferate, and spread on the polymer surface. No difference was observed in the behavior of the endothelial cells on the materials regardless of material stiffness.