Superior Cell Adhesion and Antithrombogenicity Supported by N+-bombarded Carbon Nanotubes

Super hydrophilic multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were bombarded by N ions through ion beam assisted deposition. MWCNTs were synthesized via chemical vapor deposition. Biological tests in vitro were performed on raw MWCNTs and N+-bombarded MWCNTs. Cellular adhesion was investigated both using human endothelial cells and mouse fibroblast cells. Results showed that N+-bombarded MWCNTs stimulated cell growth and proliferation, revealing superior cell adhesion. Antithrombogenicity of raw and N+-bombarded MWCNTs was evaluated by platelet conglutination, hemolysis and kinetic-clotting assays. Compared with raw MWCNTs, N+-bombarded MWCNTs displayed better morphology of platelets and red blood cells, longer kinetic blood-clotting time, which increased their thromboresistance, further antithrombogenicity.