Effects of Tetrandrine-Loading Poly(L-Lactic Acid) Film on the Behavior of Chondrocytes In Vitro

In the present study, the functions of bovine chondrocytes on tetrandrine-loading poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) films were investigated in vitro. The surface characteristics of control PLLA and tetrandrine-loading PLLA films were examined by water contact angle measurement and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). The contact angle indicated the change in hydrophilicity and the ESCA data suggested that the tetrandrine-loading PLLA films became enriched with nitrogen atoms. Cell morphologies on different films were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cytocompatibility of tetrandrine-loading PLLA films might be improved. Therefore, the attachment and proliferation of bovine articular chondrocytes seeded on tetrandrine-loading PLLA films and control one were examined. A whole cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Cell ELISA) that detects the BrdU incorporation during DNA synthesis and collagen type II secretion was applied to evaluate the chondrocytes on different PLLA films and tissue culture plates (TCPs). Cell function was assessed by measuring sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) secreted by chondrocytes. These results implied that tetrandrine- loading PLLA film could enhance the chondrocyte adhesion, proliferation and function.