Photoswitched cell adhesion on surfaces with RGD peptides

Coating of surfaces by RGD peptides is well-known. Herein we describe the possibility to switch cell adhesion properties by changing the distance and orientation of the RGD peptides to the surface. A set of RGD peptides of the type cyclo(-RGDfK-) was synthesized containing the photoswitchable 4-[(4-aminophenyl)azo]benzocarbonyl central unit as spacer between the acrylamide anchor and the RGD peptide. PMMA (poly methyl methacrylate) surfaces were coated with these peptides. Control of adhesion stimulation by irradiation with 366 or 450 nm light could be achieved.