Attachment of Human Epithelial Cells to an Anodized Titanium Surface

The attachment of the oral epithelium to the abutment surface is crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. This study aimed to evaluate the attachment of human epithelial cells to anodized titanium surfaces. Anodized titanium discs were used as the experimental group, while machined titanium discs served as the control. Surface roughness and wettability were first measured for each group. Next, human epithelial cells were seeded onto each disc at a density of 4.0 × 10⁴ cells/cm² and evaluated 3, 6, and 24 h later for cell proliferation, as well as mRNA expression and protein levels of laminin and integrin β₄. Surface roughness was comparable between the two groups; however, wettability was significantly higher in the experimental group. Cell proliferation increased over time in both groups and showed no significant difference. Notably, the expression levels of both laminin and integrin β₄ were significantly higher in the experimental group at 24 h. Furthermore, protein localization of laminin and integrin β₄ was observed along the cell margins on the anodized surface. These findings suggest that anodization enhances epithelial cell attachment by promoting the expression and peripheral organization of key adhesion molecules.