Method: Micropatterning of ceramics was carried out using an embossing technique. Two novel nanopatterning techniques were used to generate nanopatterns on titanium substrates, i.e. through-mask anodisation and block copolymer templating. The effects of micro/nanopatterns on cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation were studied using mesenchymal stem cells.
Result: Two microgrooved patterns (100µm/50µm groove/pitch, 10µm/10µm groove/pitch) were successfully transcribed onto alumina green ceramic tapes, via a embossing technique followed by sintering. Spread and polygonal cell morphologies, typical of osteoblasts, were observed on the wider groove (100 µm/50 µm) surfaces after 3 days cell culture. Cells seeded onto the narrow groove (10 µm/10 µm) surface aligned themselves alongside the grooves, resulting in more elongated cell morphology, typical to that of fibroblasts. More osteoid matrix nodules were detected on the larger grooved surfaces after a longer cell culture over 21 days. Similarlly, hMSCs response differently to nanopatterned titanium surfaces. Nanodots with 15 nm features showed optimal osteogenesis on titanium surfaces.
Conclusion: Defined topographies can be used to control specific cellular responses for ceramics and titanium metals thereby to improve their osseointegration as dental and orthopaedic implants.