Biological interactions of fibroblasts with smooth and microtextured commercially-pure titanium thin films

Improving the biological performance of engineered implants, that are apposing interfacing tissues, is a critical issue in prosthetic devices. Micromotion at the soft tissue-implant interface has been shown to sustain an inflammatory response. In order to reduce or eliminate micromotion, it is desirable to promote cellular and extracellular matrix adhesion to the implant surface. Implant surfaces can be modified topographically or chemically in order to influence cellular interactions and function. Previous studies have identified the specific topographical characteristics that appear to elicit cellular attachment. This prospective study compares the independent effects of surface chemistry and topography on fibroblast cultures.; Titanium (Ti) was sputter-coated in step-wise, increasing thickness (from 20 nm to 350 nm) onto a series of either smooth or microtextured polyethylene terephthalate (PET), resulting in a step-wise change from a PET surface to a Ti surface. The sample series was evaluated in a fibroblast culture. Cell proximity, density, proliferation and metabolic activity were assessed.; The scanning electron microscopy demonstrates that the cellular density increases as the Ti film thickness increases on either smooth or textured test-specimens. The fibroblasts exhibited contact guidance on the textured test-specimens. The transmission electron microscopy demonstrates that the fibroblast proximity to the coverslip surface increases as the Ti thickness increases on either smooth or textured test-specimens. Furthermore, the fibroblasts were firmly attached to the tops of the ridges on the coated textured test-specimens. The proliferation assay (NITS) demonstrates that the cell metabolism significantly increases as the Ti film thickens on either smooth or textured test-specimens. However, the coated textured test-specimens exhibited the most cellular proliferation. Therefore, we conclude that Ti and surface texture have stronger influences on fibroblast apposition, spreading and proliferation than PET and smooth surfaces.