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Effect of hydroxyapatite microcrystals on macrophage activity
1Division of Inorganic Materials, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan.
Abstract:
Hydroxyapatite (HAp) microcrystals were synthesized by a neutralization reaction of Ca(OH)2 suspension and H3PO4 solution using an ultrasonic homogenizer. The in vitro interaction of HAp microcrystals with rat peritoneal macrophages was investigated by measuring the viability, acid phosphatase (ACP) activity, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and intracellular calcium content. HAp calcined at 800 degrees C and alpha-alumina particles (alumina) were used as comparative materials. Macrophages actively phagocytosed HAp microcrystals by dissolving them. However, no damage in macrophages exposed to HAp microcrystals was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Macrophages in the presence of HAp microcrystals showed less ACP and LDH activity and higher intracellular calcium content than those in the presence of calcined HAp and alumina. HAp microcrystals had excellent biocompatibility to macrophages as well as sintered HAp.
Insights
Hydroxyapatite (HAp) microcrystals showed excellent biocompatibility with rat macrophages in vitro. These microcrystals were phagocytosed without causing cellular damage, indicating their potential for biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a key component of bone and teeth.
- Understanding the interaction of HAp biomaterials with cells is crucial for developing effective implants and drug delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro biocompatibility of synthesized Hydroxyapatite (HAp) microcrystals with rat peritoneal macrophages.
- To compare the cellular response to HAp microcrystals with calcined HAp and alpha-alumina particles.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of HAp microcrystals via neutralization reaction with ultrasonic homogenization.
- Assessment of macrophage viability, acid phosphatase (ACP) activity, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, and intracellular calcium content.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for evaluating cellular damage.
Main Results:
- Macrophages actively phagocytosed and dissolved HAp microcrystals without observable damage.
- Macrophages exposed to HAp microcrystals exhibited lower ACP and LDH activity compared to controls.
- Increased intracellular calcium content was observed in macrophages interacting with HAp microcrystals.
Conclusions:
- Hydroxyapatite (HAp) microcrystals demonstrate excellent biocompatibility with macrophages.
- The findings suggest HAp microcrystals are suitable for biomedical applications due to their non-cytotoxic nature and cellular interaction profile.