Effect of titanium with nanotopography on formation and remodeling of extracellular matrix produced by osteoblasts

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a three-dimensional structure secreted by cells in the extracellular space, composed of proteins and polysaccharides in different combinations, forming a specific matrix for each type of tissue. Among the functions performed by the ECM are the regulation of gene expression, organization of the cytoskeleton, and actions in morphology, proliferation, viability, and cell polarity. Our research group has been studying a titanium surface with nanotopography (Ti-Nano) obtained by a chemical method of deoxidation and reoxidation, with a solution of sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide (H2SO4/H2O2). This surface has been shown to be more osteogenic in relation to smooth or microtextured surfaces because it regulates several cell signaling pathways, such as bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), integrins, and Wnt that act in osteoblast differentiation. Since ECM is essential for the modulation of these pathways, it is relevant to investigate the effect that Ti-Nano exerts on ECM produced by osteoblasts. In this context, the objective of this project is to evaluate the effect of Ti-Nano, compared to Ti with a smooth surface (Ti-Control), on the formation and remodeling of the ECM produced by osteoblasts grown on these surfaces. The development of this study may contribute to the understanding of the extracellular components involved in the interaction between bone tissue and Ti implants and, consequently, to the development of new strategies involving ECM and surface nanotopography that favor events related to the osseointegration process. (AU)