Osteoblast activity of MG-63 cells is enhanced by growth on a lactoferrin-immobilized titanium substrate

The aim of this study was to develop a lactoferrin (LF)-immobilized titanium (Ti) substrate to enhance the osteoblast activity of MG-63 cells. Ti substrates were first modified through heparin-dopamine (Hep-DOPA) anchorage. Then, LF was immobilized on the Hep-Ti substrates via electrostatic interactions. Hep-Ti substrates, with or without LF, were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle measurements. Sustained release of LF on the Ti substrates was observed over a 28-day period. In vitro studies of osteoblast activity showed increased alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition by MG-63 cells cultured on LF-immobilized Ti substrates as compared to those cultured on pristine Ti substrates, indicating that LF-immobilized Ti substrates were effective at enhancing osteoblast activity.