Mapping Bone Marrow Cell Response from Senile Female Rats on Ca-P-Doped Titanium Coating

Chemical and topographical surface modifications on dental implants aim to increase the bone surface contact area of the implant and improve osseointegration. This study analyzed the cellular response of undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), derived from senile rats’ femoral bone marrow, when cultured on a bioactive coating (by plasma electrolytic oxidation, PEO, with Ca(2+) and P(5+) ions), a sandblasting followed by acid-etching (SLA) surface, and a machined surface (MSU). A total of 102 Ti-6Al-4V discs were divided into three groups (n = 34). The surface chemistry was analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Cell viability assay, gene expression of osteoblastic markers, and mineralized matrix formation were investigated. The cell growth and viability results were higher for PEO vs. MSU surface (p = 0.001). An increase in cell proliferation from 3 to 7 days (p < 0.05) and from 7 to 10 days (p < 0.05) was noted for PEO and SLA surfaces. Gene expression for OSX, ALP, BSP, and OPN showed a statistical significance (p = 0.001) among groups. In addition, the PEO surface showed a higher mineralized matrix bone formation (p = 0.003). In conclusion, MSC from senile female rats cultured on SLA and PEO surfaces showed similar cellular responses and should be considered for future clinical investigations.