Surface characteristics and osteoblast cell response on TiN- and TiAlN-coated Ti implant

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surface characteristics and osteoblast cell response of TiN and TiAlN coated on Ti Surface. Methods TiN and TiAlN coatings were applied on Ti dental implant and surface characteristics of these coatings were evaluated. And osteogenic effect of TiN and TiAlN coating on MG63 osteoblast-like cell proliferation and differentiation was evaluated by cell viability assay (MTT assay), ALP activity assay and expressions of collagen gene. Results As observed by SEM, both the TiN and TiAlN coatings had thickness of about 1.7 μm. From the EDX analysis, Ti and N peaks and Ti, Al and N peaks are confirmed on the TiN and TiAlN coating surface, respectively. The wetting angles of TiN and TiAlN coatings were increased as compared to that of control Ti. As compared to Ti, a great number of attached cells on TiN and TiAlN coated surfaces were observed. The cell survival rate of the TiN and TiAlN were 125% and 117% as compared to that of the Ti (100%). Both the TiN and TiAlN coatings produced equivalent levels of protein. ALP activity of MG63 cells grown on Ti, TiN and TiAlN surface is indicated. Collagen gene was overexpressed in cells cultured on TiN and TiAlN in comparison with the Ti. Conclusions TiN and TiAlN coatings on Ti dental implant may have potential for use in dental implant in terms of their biocompatibility.