Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are highly regular, but at the same time contain a certain level of disorder. The application of LIPSS is a promising method to functionalize biomaterials. However, the absorption of laser energy of most polymer biomaterials is insufficient for the direct application of LIPSS. Here, we report the application of LIPSS to relevant biomaterials using a two-step approach. First, LIPSS are fabricated on a stainless steel surface. Then, the structures are replicated onto biomaterials using the steel as a mold. Results show that LIPSS can be transferred successfully using this approach, and that human mesenchymal stromal cells respond to the transferred structures. With this approach, the range of biomaterials that can be supplied with LIPSS increases dramatically.

Back Cover: Nano‐scale Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS) are a promising candidate for the modification of biomaterial surfaces. However, these structures cannot be applied directly to most biomaterials due to insufficient absorption of the laser energy. Here an indirect moldbased approach is presented to apply LIPSS to biomaterial surfaces, and show that this modification leads to a biological response by the alignment of cells. Further details can be found in the article by Wim Hendrikson et al. http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/mabi.201500270.