Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
We have developed processing schemes for depositing three-dimensionally tailored layers of protein polymers on a variety of solid substrates. One of our goals is to create stable, biocompatible coatings on silicon devices for implantation in the central nervous system. Our research has identified several candidate coatings whose morphologies lie in the biologically significant 0.1 to 100 micrometer length scale. Using electric field mediated deposition, we are able to process polypeptides into biologically-responsive films and coatings. Quantitative analysis of the structural evolution of the coating enables us to fine-tune its morphology by varying the field strength and geometry or solution concentration. The interaction of the coated substrates with neurons and glial cells are examined in vivo and in vitro. Data collected from light optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy provide insight about the relationship between the microstructure of these coatings and their macroscopic properties.