Multifunctional Titanium Surfaces for Orthopedic Implants: Antimicrobial Activity and Enhanced Osseointegration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• Metallic implants are widely used in orthopedics and dentistry.
• Peri-implantitis and poor osseointegration can lead to implant failure.
• Existing treatments often fail to address both infection and regeneration simultaneously.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional coating for titanium (Ti) surfaces.
• To combine antibacterial silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and regenerative lactoferrin (Lf).
• To simultaneously address infection and improve osseointegration of medical implants.

Main Methods:

• A simple, cost-effective method for direct multifunctionalization of Ti surfaces.
• Characterization using atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements.
• In vitro evaluation of preosteoblast cell adhesion, viability, differentiation, and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.

Main Results:

• Lactoferrin (Lf) successfully adsorbed onto Ti surfaces with and without AgNPs.
• The Lf and AgNPs coating significantly improved preosteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation.
• Bacterial colonization was reduced by 97.7% compared to uncoated surfaces.

Conclusions:

• The developed multifunctional coating shows potential for medical devices.
• This approach can simultaneously enhance osseointegration and reduce bacterial infection risk.
• The method offers a promising strategy for improving implant success and patient quality of life.