C. A. Collier, H. J. Griffiths, A. E. Markaki, J. A. Curran, T. W. Clyne, Univeristy of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Surface characteristics are important design considerations for implant materials, as they affect cellular responses. This study examines the effect of variations in the topology and composition of oxidised titanium surfaces on human osteoblast behaviour. Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) of Ti‑6Al‑4V alloy produced five oxide surfaces possessing varying surface roughness, morphology and composition. X-ray diffraction, XPS, optical profilometry and contact angle measurement were performed to characterise the surfaces, and human foetal osteoblasts were cultured on them in vitro. The AlamarBlue assay, SEM imaging and an alkaline phosphatase activity assay were used to examine osteoblast proliferation, morphology and differentiation. The effects of oxides contained in the processed surfaces (including rutile, anatase, aluminium oxide and aluminium titanate) were examined individually, by binding them in powder form to produce surfaces with similar morphology, but different chemistry. The responses of the cells to different topological and chemical environments are discussed, providing information for future implant material design.
Summary: The topology and composition of prosthetic implant materials surfaces affect cell response and are therefore important features of implant materials. Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) can be used to produce oxidised surfaces with various surface properties. In this work, Ti-6Al-4V alloy has been PEO processed to give surfaces with different roughness and constitution. In vitro culture of human foetal osteoblasts was performed to examine their responses to various surface characteristics. Cellular proliferation, morphology and differentiation were assessed. Additionally, the effects of various different oxides (including rutile, anatase, aluminium oxide and aluminium titanate) on the cells were observed. This allowed a discussion to be made on the effects of different surface characteristics on human osteoblast behaviour.
