Differential Effect of Cobalt and Chromium Ions as Well as CoCr Particles on the Expression of Osteogenic Markers and Osteoblast Function

The balance of bone formation and resorption is the result of a regulated crosstalk between osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. Inflammation, mechanical load, and external stimuli modulate this system. Exposure of bone cells to metal ions or wear particles are thought to cause osteolysis via activation of osteoclasts and inhibition of osteoblast activity. Co(2+) ions have been shown to impair osteoblast function and the expression of the three transforming growth factor (TGF)-β isoforms. The current study was performed to analyze how Co(2+) and Cr(3+) influence the expression, proliferation, and migration profile of osteoblast-like cells. The influence of Co(2+), Cr(3+), and CoCr particles on gene expression was analyzed using an osteogenesis PCR Array. The expression of different members of the TGF-β signaling cascade were down-regulated by Co(2+), as well as several TGF-β regulated collagens, however, Cr(3+) had no effect. CoCr particles partially affected similar genes as the Co(2+)treatment. Total collagen production of Co(2+) treated osteoblasts was reduced, which can be explained by the reduced expression levels of various collagens. While proliferation of MG63 cells appears unaffected by Co(2+), the migration capacity was impaired. Our data may improve the knowledge of changes in gene expression patterns, and the proliferation and migration effects caused by artificial materials.