Advancing Organ-on-a-Chip Systems: The Role of Scaffold Materials and Coatings in Engineering Cell Microenvironment

For organ-on-a-chip (OoC) engineering, the use of biocompatible coatings and materials is not only recommended but essential. Extracellular matrix (ECM) components are commonly used as coatings due to their effects on cell orientation, protein expression, differentiation, and adhesion. Among the most frequently used coatings are collagen, fibronectin, and Matrigel, according to the specific cell type and intended OoC application. Additionally, materials such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), thermoplastics, chitosan, and alginate serve as scaffolding components due to their biomechanical properties and biocompatibility. Here, we discuss some of the most employed coating techniques, including SAMs, dip coating, spin coating, microcontact printing, and 3D bioprinting, each offering advantages and drawbacks. Current challenges comprise enhancing biocompatibility, exploring novel materials, and improving scalability and reproducibility.