MC3T3-E1 Cellular Response and Protein Detection on Surface Potential-Controlled TiO<sub>2</sub> Scale in Serum-Containing Medium

Abstract

MC3T3-E1 cell differentiation and related surface potentials of rutile-type TiO2 scales formed on Ti are controlled by varying the Ti heat treatment conditions in a N2 atmosphere containing a trace amount of O2. The zeta potentials of the samples heated at 873 and 973 K for 1 h show large negative and positive values, respectively, while cell differentiation on the surface is enhanced in both cases (14 days incubation). In the case of untreated Ti, the cell differentiation diminishes and the zeta potential becomes more neutral. Protein detection by an immunogold-labeling technique and Ca and P detection by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry reveal that Ca and P, rather than an adhesive protein such as fibronectin, predominantly adsorbed on the scales formed in 1 h at 873 and 973 K, respectively. In the case of untreated Ti, both fibronectin and a non-adhesive protein such as albumin adsorbed, but no Ca and P were detected. The present findings illuminate the relationship between charged surfaces and MC3T3-E1 cellular response.