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Updated: Jul 30, 2026

Wet Chemistry and Peptide Immobilization on Polytetrafluoroethylene for Improved Cell-adhesion
Published on: August 15, 2016
Surface modification affects human gingival epithelial cell behavior on polyetheretherketone surfaces
Keiju Omatsu1, Isao Yamawaki1, Yoichiro Taguchi1
1Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, Osaka Dental University.
Abstract:
Gingival epithelial attachment to the abutment is important for the prevention of peri-implantitis. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has recently gained attention as an alternative material to titanium; however, it is biologically inert, which is disadvantageous for obtaining soft tissue sealing of the transmucosal part of the implant abutment. Therefore, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, argon plasma irradiation, and buffing were selected as treatments to modify the PEEK surface. None of the treatments had any effect on the material's mechanical strength. The UV and plasma treatments did not significantly affect the surface morphology. Surface elemental analysis showed a decrease in carbon content and an increase in oxygen content and wettability for all treatments. Human gingival epithelial cell adhesion, proliferation, and the expression of adhesion proteins integrin β4 and laminin 332, were increased. Surface modification to PEEK was suggested to enhance cell activity on PEEK.
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