Influence of Direct Laser Written 3D Topographies on Proliferation and Differentiation of Osteoblast-Like Cells: Towards Improved Implant Surfaces

The influence of truly three‐dimensional microstructures on osteoblast‐like cells is reported. Well defined templates are fabricated by direct laser writing and biocompatibly coated with titanium dioxide, resembling implant surfaces. The influence of structural parameters on proliferation, morphology, adhesion, and differentiation is studied. A significantly higher proliferation (170%) is observed on particular topographies compared to unstructured surfaces. Additionally, an influence of structural parameters on the morphology of osteoblast‐like cells is obtained, whereas all cells possess the osteoblastic marker alkaline phosphatase within all structures. Proliferation and differentiation can be influenced via three‐dimensional designer topographies. This systematic study shows how osteoblast‐like cells grow on different well‐defined structures, fabricated by direct laser writing. Proliferation is significantly increased (170%) on particular structures compared to unstructured surfaces (100%) with identical chemical composition. The results might lead to novel implants with decreased implant failure rates.