To enhance cell adhesion and proliferation for tissue engineering applications, the surface properties of a polymer-based biomaterial can be modified through various methods. These modifications aim to improve biocompatibility, promote cell attachment, and facilitate cell growth and differentiation. Some of the common techniques include:1. Surface functionalization: Introducing functional groups or biomolecules on the surface of the polymer can enhance cell adhesion and proliferation. This can be achieved through methods such as plasma treatment, chemical grafting, or covalent immobilization of biomolecules e.g., peptides, proteins, or growth factors onto the surface.2. Surface topography modification: Altering the surface topography of the polymer can influence cell behavior. Techniques such as micro- and nano-patterning, electrospinning, or 3D printing can be used to create specific surface patterns or structures that promote cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation.3. Surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity tuning: The wettability of the polymer surface can affect cell adhesion and growth. Methods such as plasma treatment, chemical etching, or grafting hydrophilic/hydrophobic molecules can be used to adjust the surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity to promote cell attachment and proliferation.4. Blending with other polymers or additives: Mixing the base polymer with other biocompatible polymers or additives can improve its surface properties and enhance cell adhesion and proliferation. For example, blending with natural polymers e.g., collagen, chitosan, or hyaluronic acid or incorporating bioactive molecules e.g., growth factors, extracellular matrix proteins can improve the biocompatibility and bioactivity of the material.5. Surface coating: Applying a thin layer of biocompatible and bioactive materials e.g., extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors, or other bioactive molecules onto the polymer surface can enhance cell adhesion and proliferation. Methods such as dip-coating, spin-coating, or layer-by-layer assembly can be used for surface coating.6. Surface roughness modification: Adjusting the surface roughness of the polymer can influence cell adhesion and growth. Techniques such as sandblasting, chemical etching, or laser ablation can be used to create specific surface roughness levels that promote cell attachment and proliferation.By employing one or a combination of these techniques, the surface properties of a polymer-based biomaterial can be tailored to enhance cell adhesion and proliferation, ultimately improving its performance in tissue engineering applications.