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Structural and functional macrophages alterations by ceramics of different composition
1Department of Medical Sciences, Human Anatomy, University of Torino, Medical School of Novara, Italy.
Biomaterials
|February 27, 1999
Summary
Natural apatite derived from bovine bone shows excellent biocompatibility. This biomaterial is better tolerated by macrophages than synthetic hydroxyapatite and alumina ceramics, indicating its potential for dental and orthopedic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Bioceramics
Background:
- Biomaterials can trigger complex biological reactions in host tissues.
- Cell-biomaterial interactions influence the release of chemotactic factors for monocytes and lymphocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro biological reactions of macrophages to natural apatite from bovine bone.
- To compare the biocompatibility of natural apatite with synthetic apatite and alumina ceramics.
Main Methods:
- In vitro assessment of macrophage chemotactic activity and oxidative burst.
- Evaluation of natural apatite (heat-treated bovine bone), synthetic apatite, and alumina ceramics.
- Ultrastructural observations using electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Natural and synthetic hydroxyapatite powders (large granulometry) did not induce monocyte/macrophage sensitivity reactions.
- Macrophages exposed to natural and synthetic apatites exhibited features of healthy cells.
- Macrophages exposed to alumina showed negative effects, indicating poor biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- Natural apatite from bovine bone demonstrates good biocompatibility with living cells.
- Natural apatite is better tolerated by macrophages than synthetic hydroxyapatite.
- Both natural and synthetic hydroxyapatites are superior to alumina ceramics in terms of cellular compatibility for biomaterial applications.