Inflammatory effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles against polymethyl methacrylate on the subcutaneous tissue of...

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is widely recognized as a biomaterial in orthopedic and dental applications, particularly in bone cement and prosthetic implants. However, inflammatory responses at the implantation site can affect its long-term performance.

This study aims to investigate the inflammatory outcomes resulting from the incorporation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) into PMMA and to assess the cellular interactions of these composites. Moreover, it explores the potential of TiO₂-PMMA composites to enhance implant longevity while reducing adverse tissue reactivity associated with the introduction of TiO₂NPs into the body is explored.

A randomized controlled animal study was conducted to evaluate the histopathological tissue response to PMMAs acrylic resin modified with TiO₂NPs. Twenty healthy male New Zealand rabbits were used; 80 PMMA implants (3 cm × 3 mm) were prepared and randomly allocated into four groups (n = 20 each): Group A (control 0% TiO₂NPs), Group B (0.5% TiO₂NPs), Group C (1%TiO₂NPs), and Group D (2% TiO₂NPs). Implants were surgically inserted into the dorsal subcutaneous tissue of rabbits. After 14 days, the implantation sites were excised and histopathological examination was performed to assess inflammatory responses.

The study demonstrated lower inflammation and better tissue integration with the TiO₂-PMMA composite groups than with pure PMMA. Adverse reactions were noted among the TiO₂NPs with 0.5% wt. (severe reaction), whereas the large amounts of TiO₂NPs 1% wt. and 2% wt. composites showed greater biocompatibility.

TiO₂NPs enhance the biological performance of PMMA by reducing inflammatory responses and improving tissue integration. These findings highlight the potential of TiO₂-PMMA composites to extend the longevity and success of biomedical implants.