Characteristics of melanocyte spheroids formed through different biomaterial-induced processes

The study investigated melanocyte spheroid formation using chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) biomaterials. It was found that melanocytes on chitosan surfaces attached, migrated, and aggregated to form spheroids, while on PVA surfaces, they directly aggregated in suspension. The chitosan membranes supported higher proliferative ability and survival rates of melanocytes compared to PVA. The study concluded that chitosan facilitated both cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions, enhancing cellular functions, whereas PVA only supported cell-cell interactions. Chitosan-induced spheroids potentially improved the diffusion and assimilation of trophic factors.