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Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Multi-Scale Modification of Metallic Implants With Pore Gradients, Polyelectrolytes and Their Indirect Monitoring In vivo
Published on: July 1, 2013
Liposome-modified titanium surface: A strategy to locally deliver bioactive molecules
Vincenzo De Leo1, Monica Mattioli-Belmonte2, Maria Teresa Cimmarusti3
1Department of Chemistry, University of Bari, Via Orabona 4, 70126 Bari, Italy; CNR-IPCF Institute for Physical and Chemical Processes, Bari unit, Via Orabona 4, 70126 Bari, Italy.
Researchers developed novel liposome coatings for titanium implants to improve osseointegration. These coatings effectively deliver bioactive molecules, enhancing potential for dental and orthopedic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Titanium alloys are crucial for orthopedic and dental implants due to excellent mechanical and corrosion resistance.
- Osseointegration can be hindered by adverse tissue/implant reactions, necessitating advanced surface modification strategies.
- Liposome-based coatings offer a promising approach for delivering drugs or bioactive molecules to implant surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize two distinct liposome-based coatings on titanium surfaces for enhanced implant applications.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility, cell adhesion, and drug delivery capabilities of these novel coatings.
- To confirm the potential of liposome-modified titanium surfaces in bone-related prosthetic applications.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of supported vesicular layers (SVLs) via liposome adhesion and covalently bonded vesicular layers (CBVLs) via functionalization.
- Characterization using photoluminescence spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy to confirm liposome integrity.
- Assessment of cell viability (MG63 cells) and adhesion using cytotoxicity assays and scanning electron microscopy.
- Evaluation of cellular uptake and bioactive molecule delivery (phosphatidylserine) via fluorescence microscopy.
Main Results:
- Both SVL and CBVL coatings demonstrated effective anchoring of intact liposomes on titanium surfaces.
- High MG63 cell viability (>70%) was observed on both coating types after 48 hours.
- SVL coatings promoted greater MG63 cell adhesion and spreading compared to CBVL coatings.
- Successful cellular uptake of liposome contents and delivery of phosphatidylserine were confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Liposome-based coatings (SVLs and CBVLs) are viable strategies for modifying titanium implant surfaces.
- These coatings show good biocompatibility and potential for controlled release of bioactive molecules.
- The developed liposome-modified titanium surfaces hold significant promise for improving osseointegration in dental and orthopedic applications.
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