Improved Bioactivity of Titanium-Based Surfaces Fabricated by Laser Melting Deposition by Functionalization with 3D...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Tissue Engineering
• Surface Science

Background:

• Titanium (Ti)-based implants are crucial for bone injuries but exhibit limited bioactivity.
• Enhancing implant bioactivity is essential for improved osseointegration and clinical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a synergistic approach combining laser melting deposition (LMD) and laser direct writing via two-photon polymerization (LDW via TPP).
• To functionalize Ti surfaces with 3D polymeric microstructures to improve Ti bioactivity for bone regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ti-based supports using LMD with Ti and TiC powders.
• Functionalization of Ti surfaces with 3D microstructures (IP-Dip photopolymer) using LDW via TPP.
• Culturing MG-63 osteoblast-like cells on functionalized and non-functionalized Ti surfaces for bioactivity assessment.

Main Results:

• The 3D microstructures promoted enhanced 3D spatial organization of osteoblast-like cells.
• Functionalized Ti surfaces exhibited earlier organic matrix synthesis and mineralization compared to non-functionalized Ti.
• Cells exerted significantly higher traction forces (hundreds of µN) on 3D microstructures.

Conclusions:

• The synergistic approach significantly improves Ti bioactivity.
• 3D polymeric microarchitectures play a critical role in osteoblast-like cell interaction with Ti surfaces.
• This method offers a promising strategy for developing advanced bioactive bone implants.