The kinetics and concentration of Ti particles loading determine molecular and cellular responses of osteoblasts

Periprosthetic osteolysis and implant loosening after joint arthroplasty in both cemented and cementless prosthesis remains a major cause of implant failure. Wear debris generation has been implicated as one of the primary causes of periprosthetic osteolysis and implant loosening in total joint replacement. Metallic, ceramic, and polymeric debris particles have been shown to provoke a biologic response in tissues surrounding joint tissues. The fact that the cells immediately surrounding the implant consist primarily of osteoblasts and mesenchymal cells, combined with reports of transport of the particles, along the interface between the prosthesis and bone, has led us to investigate the influence particulate debris has on osteoblasts in vitro. The phenomenon of osteoblast phagocytosis of titanium particles has been suggested and consequences of cell functional changes has not been sufficiently confirmed in the literature. This study sought to clarify the influence of titanium particles on osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and viability and gene activities after cell uptake Ti particles. Results indicate that some osteoblast functions diminished, depending on the concentration and exposure time to Ti particles.