Figure 3. Analysis of the effect of poly-L-lysine coating on contact angles.

(A) Substrates were coated with poly-L-lysine solution for 2 hours and then rinsed with distilled water. After overnight drying (∼16 hours) at room temperature, images were captured using a contact angle analyzer. The angle was calculated using the instrument software and the values shown represent the averages of the angles from both sides of the droplet. Non-coated surfaces were also tested for comparative purposes. Each picture is representative for each sample group. The light square observed in the center of the droplet of the pictures taken to the plastic dish samples corresponds to the area where light passes perpendicularly through the water so that refraction does not happen, a similar effect than the one produced by a spherical lens when illuminated. It is important to mention that the light source was located at the opposite side of the water droplet in relation to the camera lens. (B) Plastic culture dishes and Si₃N₄ surfaces were left untreated or coated with 0.01% or 0.05% poly-L-lysine. A contact angle analyzer was used to measure sessile drop contact angles. Values are the mean ± S.E. for twenty samples (Two trials of ten samples each). *, p<0.001 vs. plastic culture dish.