Biofunctionalization of Microgroove Surfaces with Antibacterial Nanocoatings

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Periodontal Research

Background:

• Dental implants require surfaces that inhibit bacterial growth and promote cell integration.
• Microgrooved (MG) surfaces and antibacterial nanocoatings are strategies to improve implant performance.
• Understanding surface properties and biological interactions is crucial for developing effective dental materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the physical properties of modified microgroove (MG) and antibacterial nanocoated surfaces.
• To assess the biological interactions of these surfaces with human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs).
• To determine the antibacterial efficacy against *Porphyromonas gingivalis*.

Main Methods:

• Titanium nitride (TiN) and silver (Ag) nanocoatings were applied to smooth and MG titanium surfaces via magnetron sputtering.
• Surface morphology, roughness, hydrophilicity, and contact guidance were characterized.
• HGF proliferation, vinculin expression, and *P. gingivalis* antibacterial activity were quantified.

Main Results:

• TiN coating on MG surfaces (TiN-MG) exhibited lower nanoroughness and higher hydrophilicity than Ag coating on smooth surfaces (Ag-S).
• TiN-MG surfaces promoted greater HGF proliferation and vinculin expression compared to Ag-coated surfaces.
• Ag-coated surfaces demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity, followed by TiN-coated surfaces.

Conclusions:

• Nano-Ag coatings provide potent antimicrobial effects but have questionable biocompatibility.
• TiN nanocoating on MG surfaces offers a balance of antibacterial properties and optimal biocompatibility, preserving contact guidance for HGFs.