Ms. Rose Spear

Functionalization of Carbon-based Nanomaterials for Stimulation of New Bone Growth

My research focuses upon the functionalization of carbon nanotubes and related carbon-based nanomaterials, graphite and buckminsterfullerene, to improve surface interactions with aqueous solutions and cellular environments. Initial experiments will compare solution chemistry methods to plasma-based methods for attaching functional groups to the surfaces while minimizing the loss of structural integrity and mechanical strength of the nanomaterials.

The covalent bonding of biomolecules to the surface of carbon-based nanomaterials also affords a promising route to improving the biocompatibility of these materials. Modified carbon-based nanomaterials provide a suitable surface for further functionalization with bone cell stimulators and adhesion molecules, such as bone morphogenic proteins and fibronectin. Carbon nanotubes, in particular, have been shown to have an affinity for osteoblast cells in vitro. Functionalization of carbon-based nanomaterials with bone cell adhesion molecules or stimulators followed by immersion in bone cell cultures may induce the adhesion of cells to the functionalized carbon nanostructures and subsequent cell proliferation.

Several methods are used in the characterization of these nanomaterials, including TEM, SEM, TGA/DSC, FTIR, and Raman Spectroscopy. Cellular studies are done in collaboration with Dr. Roger Brooks and Dr. Debbie Ireland at the Orthopaedic Research Unit of Addenbrooke’s Hospital.