Author: NERINGA BAKUTĖ
Dissertation title: Biomaterials research in the field of biocompatibility, cell adhesion, and applications in microfluidic systems
Fields of science: Chemistry N 003
Scientific supervisor: dr. Arūnas Stirkė
Defence of the dissertation: 19 December 2025
SUMMARY: The surface properties of biomaterials determine their interaction with cells and are crucial for ensuring their suitability for biomedical applications. This dissertation analyses surface modification strategies applied to two distinct classes of materials: anodized aluminum (Al) alloy 6082 and polycarbonate (PC). It evaluates the impact of these modifications on cell adhesion, biocompatibility, and biomedical applicability. The Al alloy, anodized using sulfuric and phosphoric acid electrolytes, was examined to assess whether the resulting samples meet the requirements for biomaterials. The data revealed that only the alloy anodized with sulfuric acid electrolyte exhibits the appropriate chemical stability, surface morphology, and cell adhesion, qualifying it as a biomaterial. Meanwhile, although PC is classified as a biomaterial, it is inherently unsuitable for cell adhesion due to its hydrophobic nature. To facilitate mammalian cell adhesion, its surface was chemically modified for compatibility with microfluidic systems. A microphysiological system was developed, integrating a porous PC membrane, electrodes, and microenvironment sensors, designed for use with mammalian cells. This dissertation demonstrates that surface modification can be purposefully applied to enhance cell interaction and adapt materials for specific biomedical needs, such as implantology, tissue engineering, and in vitro microfluidic technologies.