This thesis of Lisa Tromp investigates how the properties of implant surfaces, such as their structure, stiffness, and how they interact with water, can influence the way different cells respond to them. To do this, a new experimental platform was developed that makes it possible to test many surface designs at once and see how cells behave. This approach revealed combinations of surface properties that can instruct cell behavior to avoid unwanted reactions. For example, certain combinations were shown to help normal breast cells thrive while preventing breast cancer cells from growing.
Other surface designs were found to limit the formation of scar-like tissue that often surrounds implants and causes problems, known as biomaterial-associated fibrosis. The research also extended these findings to animal models, using advanced imaging techniques to observe how immune and tissue cells behave around differently treated materials in real time. Overall, this work shows that carefully designed implant surfaces can guide the body’s response in beneficial ways. These insights could pave the way for safer, longer-lasting implants that better support healing and reduce complications for patients.
