Electrochemically nano-engineered titanium: Influence of dual micro-nanotopography of anisotropic nanopores on bioactivity and antimicrobial activity

Early establishment of integration between the implant and the surrounding bone tissue is crucial for the long-term stability of orthopedic and dental implants. To this end, surface modification of titanium-based implants have been performed to achieve augmented bioactivity and local therapy. We hereby propose the fabrication of dual micro-nano anisotropic titania nanopores (TNPs) on micro-machined titanium via electrochemical anodization towards enhanced osteoblast performance. An in-depth analysis of the surface topographical and chemical characteristics of the nanopores was followed by a culture of primary human osteoblasts to investigate proliferation, attachment, cytoskeleton alignment, and expression of different osteogenic gene markers. Next, the influence of dual micro-nanotopography on the formation of biofilm was evaluated using an oral salivary biofilm model. The study found that the topography and surface chemistry changes influenced protein adsorption and modulated osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Additionally, RT-qPCR studies showed that the nanoporous structure significantly enhanced the expression of the osteogenesis markers RUNX2, OCN, OPN, and ALP. Finally, it was observed that the anodized nano-engineered Ti did not influence the formation of oral biofilm.