Increase of BM-MSC proliferation using L-DOPA on titanium surface in vitro

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Dental implant biocompatibility is crucial for osseointegration and long-term success.
• Surface modification of titanium implants with biomolecules can improve biological responses.
• L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) is a biomolecule with adhesive properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of L-DOPA surface modification on titanium discs.
• To evaluate the impact of L-DOPA coating on titanium hydrophilicity and cell adhesion.
• To assess the proliferation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) on modified titanium surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Titanium discs were surface-etched and treated with L-DOPA.
• Water contact angle measurements were used to assess surface hydrophilicity.
• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed L-DOPA adherence.
• Cell proliferation assays quantified BM-MSC numbers on different surfaces.

Main Results:

• L-DOPA treatment significantly reduced water contact angle, increasing surface hydrophilicity.
• AFM confirmed successful immobilization of L-DOPA on the titanium surface.
• BM-MSC adhesion and proliferation were significantly higher on L-DOPA-treated titanium compared to controls.
• Increased L-DOPA content correlated with enhanced cell proliferation and mitochondrial activity.

Conclusions:

• Surface modification of titanium with L-DOPA enhances hydrophilicity and promotes BM-MSC adhesion and proliferation.
• L-DOPA coating represents a promising strategy for improving the biocompatibility of titanium dental implants.
• The findings suggest a causal link between L-DOPA surface concentration and enhanced stem cell response.