Quantitative phase microscopy for the study of bone cells on multiple roughness surfaces

We present a phase shifting interferometry system for the study of the early adhesion process for osteoblast-like cells, through an interference microscope. Optical phase maps from the cells are obtained experimentally as a function of cell adhesion time. The process is carried out on surfaces of metallic materials relevant to the development of bone implants. The surfaces were subjected to various levels of mechanical polishing and their roughness was measured using the same experimental technique mentioned before. Morphological changes of the cell can be measured over their optical phase maps while the cell adhesion process is accomplished. The experimental technique shows a suitable feature as to the observed time scale, and also shows a high stockiness and precision for the determination of the optical phase.