Response of Osteoclasts to Titanium Surfaces with Increasing Surface Roughness: An In Vitro Study

In vitro evaluation of bone cell response to novel 3D-printable nanocomposite biomaterials for bone reconstruction

Critically-sized segmental bone defects represent significant challenges requiring grafts for reconstruction. 3D-printed synthetic bone grafts are viable alternatives to structural allografts if engineered to provide appropriate mechanical performance and osteoblast/osteoclast cell responses. Novel 3D-printable nanocomposites containing acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) or methacrylated AESO (mAESO), polyethylene glycol diacrylate, and nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) were produced using masked stereolithography. The effects of volume fraction of nHA and methacrylation of AESO on interactions of differentiated MC3T3-E1 osteoblast (dMC3T3-OB) and differentiated RAW264.7 osteoclast cells with 3D-printed nanocomposites were evaluated in vitro and compared with a control biomaterial, hydroxyapatite (HA). Higher nHA content and methacrylation significantly improved the mechanical properties. All nanocomposites supported dMC3T3-OB cells' adhesion and proliferation. Higher amounts of nHA enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation. mAESO in the nanocomposites resulted in greater adhesion, proliferation, and activity at day 7 compared with AESO nanocomposites. Excellent osteoclast-like cells survival, defined actin rings, and large multinucleated cells were only observed on the high nHA fraction (30%) mAESO nanocomposite and the HA control. Thus, mAESO-based nanocomposites containing higher amounts of nHA have better interactions with osteoblast-like and osteoclast-like cells, comparable with HA controls, making them a potential future alternative graft material for bone defect repair.

Engineering approaches to manipulate osteoclast behavior for bone regeneration

Extensive research has delved into the multifaceted roles of osteoclasts beyond their traditional function in bone resorption in recent years, uncovering their significant influence on bone formation. This shift in understanding has spurred investigations into engineering strategies aimed at leveraging osteoclasts to not only inhibit bone resorption but also facilitate bone regeneration. This review seeks to comprehensively examine the mechanisms by which osteoclasts impact bone metabolism. Additionally, it explores various engineering methodologies, including the modification of bioactive material properties, localized drug delivery, and the introduction of exogenous cells, assessing their potential and mechanisms in aiding bone repair by targeting osteoclasts. Finally, the review proposes current limitations and future routes for manipulating osteoclasts through biological and material cues to facilitate bone repair.

Influence of the sintering atmosphere on the physico-chemical properties and the osteoclastic resorption of β-tricalcium phosphate cylinders

One of the most widely used materials for bone graft substitution is β-Tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP; β-Ca3(PO4)2). β-TCP is typically produced by sintering in air or vacuum. During this process, evaporation of phosphorus (P) species occurs, leading to the formation of a calcium-rich alkaline layer. It was recently shown that the evaporation of P species could be prevented by co-sintering β-TCP with dicalcium phosphate (DCPA; CaHPO4; mineral name: monetite). The aim of this study was to see how a change of sintering atmosphere could affect the physico-chemical and biological properties of β-TCP. For this purpose, three experimental groups were considered: β-TCP cylinders sintered in air and subsequently polished to remove the surface layer (control group); the same polished cylinders after subsequent annealing at 500 °C in air to generate a calcium-rich alkaline layer (annealed group); and finally, β-TCP cylinders sintered in a monetite-rich atmosphere and subsequently polished (monetite group). XPS analysis confirmed that cylinders from the annealed group had a significantly higher Ca/P molar ratio at their surface than that of the control group while this ratio was significantly lower for the cylinders from the monetite group. Sintering β-TCP in the monetite-rich atmosphere significantly reduced the grain size and increased the density. Changes of surface composition affected the activity of osteoclasts seeded onto the surfaces, since annealed β-TCP cylinders were significantly less resorbed than β-TCP cylinders sintered in the monetite-rich atmosphere. This suggests that an increase of the surface Ca/P molar ratio leads to a decrease of osteoclastic resorption. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Minimal changes of surface and bulk (< 1%) composition have major effects on the ability of osteoclasts to resorb β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), one of the most widely used ceramics for bone substitution. The results presented in this study are thus important for the calcium phosphate community because (i) β-TCP may have up to 5% impurities according to ISO and ASTM standards and still be considered to be "pure β-TCP", (ii) β-TCP surface properties are generally not considered during biocompatibility assessment and (iii) a rationale can be proposed to explain the various inconsistencies reported in the literature on the biological properties of β-TCP.

Differentiation-inducing effect of osteoclast microgrooves for the purpose of three-dimensional design of regenerated bone

In vivo bone remodeling is promoted by the balance between osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Conventional research on bone regeneration has mainly focused on increasing osteoblast activity, with limited studies on the effects of scaffold topography on cell differentiation. Here, we examined the effect of microgroove-patterned substrate with spacings ranging from 1 to 10 μm on the differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived osteoclast precursors. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and relative gene expression quantification showed that osteoclast differentiation was enhanced in substrate with 1 µm microgroove spacing compared with that in the other groups. Additionally, the ratio of podosome maturation stages in substrate with 1 μm microgroove spacing exhibited a distinct pattern, which was characterized by an increase in the ratio of belts and rings and a decrease in that of clusters. However, myosin II abolished the effects of topography on osteoclast differentiation. Overall, these showed that the reduction of myosin II tension in the podosome core by an integrin vertical vector increased podosome stability and promoted osteoclast differentiation in substrates with 1 μm microgroove spacing, including that microgroove design plays an important role in scaffolds for bone regeneration. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Reduction of myosin II tension in the podosome core, facilitated by an integrin vertical vector, resulted in an enhanced osteoclast differentiation, concomitant with an increase in podosome stability within 1-μm-spaced microgrooves. These findings are anticipated to serve as valuable indicators for the regulation of osteoclast differentiation through the manipulation of biomaterial surface topography in tissue engineering. Furthermore, this study contributes to the lucidation of the underlying mechanisms governing cellular differentiation by providing insights into the impact of the microtopographical environment.

Monocyte Differentiation on Atomic Layer-Deposited (ALD) Hydroxyapatite Coating on Titanium Substrate

Hydroxyapatite (HA; Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂) coating of bone implants has many beneficial properties as it improves osseointegration and eventually becomes degraded and replaced with new bone. We prepared HA coating on a titanium substrate with atomic layer deposition (ALD) and compared monocyte differentiation and material resorption between ALD-HA and bone. After stimulation with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), human peripheral blood monocytes differentiated into resorbing osteoclasts on bovine bone, but non-resorbing foreign body cells were observed on ALD-HA. The analysis of the topography of ALD-HA and bone showed no differences in wettability (water contact angle on ALD-HA 86.2° vs. 86.7° on the bone), but the surface roughness of ALD-HA (Ra 0.713 µm) was significantly lower compared to bone (Ra 2.30 µm). The cellular reaction observed on ALD-HA might be a consequence of the topographical properties of the coating. The absence of resorptive osteoclasts on ALD-HA might indicate inhibition of their differentiation or the need to modify the coating to induce osteoclast differentiation.

Roles of osteoclasts in alveolar bone remodeling

Osteoclasts are large multinucleated cells from hematopoietic origin and are responsible for bone resorption. A balance between osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation is critical to maintain bone homeostasis. The alveolar bone, also called the alveolar process, is the part of the jawbone that holds the teeth and supports oral functions. It differs from other skeletal bones in several aspects: its embryonic cellular origin, the form of ossification, and the presence of teeth and periodontal tissues; hence, understanding the unique characteristic of the alveolar bone remodeling is important to maintain oral homeostasis. Excessive osteoclastic bone resorption is one of the prominent features of bone diseases in the jaw such as periodontitis. Therefore, inhibiting osteoclast formation and bone resorptive process has been the target of therapeutic intervention. Understanding the mechanisms of osteoclastic bone resorption is critical for the effective treatment of bone diseases in the jaw. In this review, we discuss basic principles of alveolar bone remodeling with a specific focus on the osteoclastic bone resorptive process and its unique functions in the alveolar bone. Lastly, we provide perspectives on osteoclast-targeted therapies and regenerative approaches associated with bone diseases in the jaw.

Multi-functional osteoclasts in matrix-based tissue engineering bone

The repair of bone defects, especially for the large segment of bone defects, has always been an urgent problem in orthopedic clinic and attracted researchers' attention. Nowadays, the application of tissue engineering bone in the repair of bone defects has become the research hotspot. With the rapid development of tissue engineering, the novel and functional scaffold materials for bone repair have emerged. In this review, we have summarized the multi-functional roles of osteoclasts in bone remodeling. The development of matrix-based tissue engineering bone has laid a theoretical foundation for further investigation about the novel bone regeneration materials which could perform high bioactivity. From the point of view on preserving pre-osteoclasts and targeting mature osteoclasts, this review introduced the novel matrix-based tissue engineering bone based on osteoclasts in the field of bone tissue engineering, which provides a potential direction for the development of novel scaffold materials for the treatment of bone defects.

Effects of Titanium Implant Surface Topology on Bone Cell Attachment and Proliferation in vitro

Purpose

Titanium is commonly used for implants because of its corrosion resistance and osseointegration capability. It is well known that surface topology affects the response of bone tissue towards implants. In vivo studies have shown that in weeks or months, bone tissue bonds more efficiently to titanium implants with rough surfaces compared to smooth surfaces. In addition, stimulating early endosseous integration increases the long-term stability of bone-implants and hence their clinical outcome. Here, we evaluated the response of human MG-63 osteoblast-like cells to flat and solid, compared to rough and porous surface topologies in vitro 1–6 days post seeding. We compared the morphology, proliferation, and attachment of cells onto three smooth surfaces: tissue culture (TC) plastic or microscope cover glasses, machined polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK), and machined solid titanium, to cells on a highly porous (average R_a 22.94 μm) plasma-sprayed titanium surface (composite Ti-PEEK spine implants).

Methods

We used immuno-fluorescence (IF) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as Live/Dead and WST-1 cell proliferation assays.

Results

SEM analyses confirmed the rough topology of the titanium implant surface, compared to the smooth surface of PEEK, solid titanium, TC plastic and cover glasses. In addition, SEM analyses revealed that MG-63 cells seeded onto smooth surfaces (solid titanium, PEEK) adopted a flat, planar morphology, while cells on the rough titanium surface adopted an elongated morphology with numerous filopodial and lamellipodial extensions interacting with the substrate. Finally, IF analyses of focal adhesions (vinculin, focal adhesion kinase), as well as proliferation assays indicate that MG-63 cells adhere less and proliferate at a slower rate on the rough than on a smooth titanium surface.

Conclusion

These observations suggest that bone-forming osteoblasts adhere less strongly and proliferate slower on rough compared to smooth titanium surfaces, likely promoting cell differentiation, which is in agreement with other porous implant materials.

Effect of minor amounts of β-calcium pyrophosphate and hydroxyapatite on the physico-chemical properties and osteoclastic resorption of β-tricalcium phosphate cylinders

β-Tricalcium Phosphate (β-TCP), one of the most used bone graft substitutes, may contain up to 5 wt% foreign phase according to standards. Typical foreign phases include β-calcium pyrophosphate (β-CPP) and hydroxyapatite (HA). Currently, the effect of small amounts of impurities on β-TCP resorption is unknown. This is surprising since pyrophosphate is a very potent osteoclast inhibitor. The main aim of this study was to assess the effect of small β-CPP fractions (<1 wt%) on the in vitro osteoclastic resorption of β-TCP. A minor aim was to examine the effect of β-CPP and HA impurities on the physico-chemical properties of β-TCP powders and sintered cylinders. Twenty-six batches of β-TCP powder were produced with a Ca/P molar ratio varying between 1.440 and 1.550. Fifteen were further processed to obtain dense and polished β-TCP cylinders. Finally, six of them, with a Ca/P molar ratio varying between 1.496 (1 wt% β-CPP) and 1.502 (1 wt% HA), were incubated in the presence of osteoclasts. Resorption was quantified by white-light interferometry. Osteoclastic resorption was significantly inhibited by β-CPP fraction in a linear manner. The presence of 1% β-CPP reduced β-TCP resorption by 40%, which underlines the importance of controlling β-CPP content when assessing β-TCP biological performance.

Osteoimmune reaction caused by novel silicocarnotite bioceramic promoting osteogenesis through MAPK pathway

The host immune response to implant is a key factor in determining the fate of bone grafts, which is thought to be a regulator of tissue regeneration. Figuring out the...

Osteocytes Influence on Bone Matrix Integrity Affects Biomechanical Competence at Bone-Implant Interface of Bioactive-Coated Titanium Implants in Rat Tibiae

Osseointegration is a prerequisite for the long-term success of implants. Titanium implants are preferred for their biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Nonetheless, the need for early and immediate loading requires enhancing these properties by adding bioactive coatings. In this preclinical study, extracellular matrix properties and cellular balance at the implant/bone interface was examined. Polyelectrolyte multilayers of chitosan and gelatin or with chitosan and Hyaluronic acid fabricated on titanium alloy using a layer-by-layer self-assembly process were compared with native titanium alloy. The study aimed to histologically evaluate bone parameters that correlate to the biomechanical anchorage enhancement resulted from bioactive coatings of titanium implants in a rat animal model. Superior collagen fiber arrangements and an increased number of active osteocytes reflected a significant improvement of bone matrix quality at the bone interface of the chitosan/gelatin-coated titan implants over chitosan/hyaluronic acid-coated and native implants. Furthermore, the numbers and localization of osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the reparative and remodeling phases suggested a better cellular balance in the chitosan/Gel-coated group over the other two groups. Investigating the micro-mechanical properties of bone tissue at the interface can elucidate detailed discrepancies between different promising bioactive coatings of titanium alloys to maximize their benefit in future medical applications.

Covalent linkage of sulfated hyaluronan to the collagen scaffold Mucograft® enhances scaffold stability and reduces proinflammatory macrophage activation in vivo

Sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG) show interaction with biological mediator proteins. Although collagen-based biomaterials are widely used in clinics, their combination with high-sulfated hyaluronan (sHA3) is unexplored. This study aims to functionalize a collagen-based scaffold (Mucograft®) with sHA3 via electrostatic (sHA3/PBS) or covalent binding to collagen fibrils (sHA3+EDC/NHS). Crosslinking without sHA3 was used as a control (EDC/NHS Ctrl). The properties of the sHA3-functionalized materials were characterized. In vitro growth factor and cytokine release after culturing with liquid platelet-rich fibrin was performed by means of ELISA. The cellular reaction to the biomaterials was analyzed in a subcutaneous rat model. The study revealed that covalent linking of sHA3 to collagen allowed only a marginal release of sHA3 over 28 days in contrast to electrostatically bound sHA3. sHA3+EDC/NHS scaffolds showed reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) and enhanced interleukin-8 (IL-8) and epithelial growth factor (EGF) release in vitro compared to the other scaffolds. Both sHA3/PBS and EDC/NHS Ctrl scaffolds showed a high proinflammatory reaction (M1: CD-68+/CCR7+) and induced multinucleated giant cell (MNGC) formation in vivo. Only sHA3+EDC/NHS scaffolds reduced the proinflammatory macrophage M1 response and did not induce MNGC formation during the 30 days. SHA3+EDC/NHS scaffolds had a stable structure in vivo and showed sufficient integration into the implantation region after 30 days, whereas EDC/NHS Ctrl scaffolds underwent marked disintegration and lost their initial structure. In summary, functionalized collagen (sHA3+EDC/NHS) modulates the inflammatory response and is a promising biomaterial as a stable scaffold for full-thickness skin regeneration in the future.

•

Covalent linking of high-sulfated hyaluronan (sHA3) to collagen allows a sustained release of sHA3.

•

Covalent linking of sHA3 to collagen modulates the release of growth factor and cytokines in vitro.

•

Covalent linking of sHA3 to collagen suppresses the induction of multinucleated giant cells in vivo.

•

Covalent linking of sHA3 to collagen reduces the proinflammatory macrophage M1 response in vivo.

•

Functionalized collagen with sHA3 is promising for full-thickness skin regeneration.

Review on material parameters to enhance bone cell function in vitro and in vivo

Bone plays critical roles in support, protection, movement, and metabolism. Although bone has an innate capacity for regeneration, this capacity is limited, and many bone injuries and diseases require intervention. Biomaterials are a critical component of many treatments to restore bone function and include non-resorbable implants to augment bone and resorbable materials to guide regeneration. Biomaterials can vary considerably in their biocompatibility and bioactivity, which are functions of specific material parameters. The success of biomaterials in bone augmentation and regeneration is based on their effects on the function of bone cells. Such functions include adhesion, migration, inflammation, proliferation, communication, differentiation, resorption, and vascularization. This review will focus on how different material parameters can enhance bone cell function both in vitro and in vivo.

The State of the Art and Prospects for Osteoimmunomodulatory Biomaterials

The critical role of the immune system in host defense against foreign bodies and pathogens has been long recognized. With the introduction of a new field of research called osteoimmunology, the crosstalk between the immune and bone-forming cells has been studied more thoroughly, leading to the conclusion that the two systems are intimately connected through various cytokines, signaling molecules, transcription factors and receptors. The host immune reaction triggered by biomaterial implantation determines the in vivo fate of the implant, either in new bone formation or in fibrous tissue encapsulation. The traditional biomaterial design consisted in fabricating inert biomaterials capable of stimulating osteogenesis; however, inconsistencies between the in vitro and in vivo results were reported. This led to a shift in the development of biomaterials towards implants with osteoimmunomodulatory properties. By endowing the orthopedic biomaterials with favorable osteoimmunomodulatory properties, a desired immune response can be triggered in order to obtain a proper bone regeneration process. In this context, various approaches, such as the modification of chemical/structural characteristics or the incorporation of bioactive molecules, have been employed in order to modulate the crosstalk with the immune cells. The current review provides an overview of recent developments in such applied strategies.

Netrin-1 regulates ERK1/2 signaling pathway and autophagy activation in wear particle-induced osteoclastogenesis

Background

Artificial joint replacement surgery is often accompanied by osteolysis induced aseptic loosening around the prosthesis. Wear particles from joint replacement are thought to be one of the main factors leading to local inflammation and osteolysis at the prosthesis site. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanism of osteoclast formation and dissolution induced by wear particles and the potential roles of Netrin‐1, the ERK1/2 pathway and autophagy activation in this process.

Methods

The messenger RNA levels in cells and tissues were detected with real‐time quantitative PCR. The western blotting was used to detect the expression of proteins. A CCK‐8 kit was used to detect the viability of RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, an air pouch model of bone resorption was established. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of TRAP and Netrin‐1 in rat bone tissue. Cell culture supernatants were collected in the rat air pouch model of bone resorption, and the levels of RANKL and OPG were detected with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The protein levels of TRAP and Netrin‐1 in bone tissue were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Titanium wear particles induced osteoclast formation and autophagy activation. Moreover, blocking autophagy suppressed the osteoclastogenesis after exposure to wear particles in vitro. The activation of the ERK1/2 pathway and the overexpression of Netrin‐1 were both found to play important roles in osteoclastogenesis mediated by autophagy. Moreover, 3‐MA effectively decreased the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines mediated by wear particles.

Conclusion

Blockade of autophagy inhibits the osteoclastogenesis and inflammation induced by wear particles, thus potentially providing novel treatment strategies for abnormal osteoclastogenesis and aseptic prosthesis loosening induced by wear particles.

Empirical and theoretical insights into the structural effects of selenite doping in hydroxyapatite and the ensuing inhibition of osteoclasts

The use of ions as therapeutic agents has the potential to minimize the use of small-molecule drugs and biologics for the same purpose, thus providing a potentially more economic and less adverse means of treating, ameliorating or preventing a number of diseases. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a solid compound capable of accommodating foreign ions with a broad range of sizes and charges and its properties can dramatically change with the incorporation of these ionic additives. While most ionic substitutes in HAp have been monatomic cations, their lesser atomic weight, higher diffusivity, chaotropy and a lesser residence time on surfaces theoretically makes them prone to exert a lesser influence on the material/cell interaction than the more kosmotropic oxyanions. Selenite ion as an anionic substitution in HAp was explored in this study for its ability to affect the short-range and the long-range crystalline symmetry and solubility as well as for its ability to affect the osteoclast activity. We combined microstructural, crystallographic and spectroscopic analyses with quantum mechanical calculations to understand the structural effects of doping HAp with selenite. Integration of selenite ions into the crystal structure of HAp elongated the crystals along the c-axis, but isotropically lowered the crystallinity. It also increased the roughness of the material in direct proportion with the content of the selenite dopant, thus having a potentially positive effect on cell adhesion and integration with the host tissue. Selenite in total acted as a crystal structure breaker, but was also able to bring about symmetry at the local and global scales within specific concentration windows, indicating a variety of often mutually antagonistic crystallographic effects that it can induce in a concentration-dependent manner. Experimental determination of the lattice strain coupled with ab initio calculations on three different forms of carbonated HAp (A-type, B-type, AB-type) demonstrated that selenite ions initially substitute carbonates in the crystal structure of carbonated HAp, before substituting phosphates at higher concentrations. The most energetically favored selenite-doped HAp is of AB-type, followed by the B-type and only then by the A-type. This order of stability was entailed by the variation in the geometry and orientation of both the selenite ion and its neighboring phosphates and/or carbonates. The incorporation of selenite in different types of carbonated HAp also caused variations of different thermodynamic parameters, including entropy, enthalpy, heat capacity, and the Gibbs free energy. Solubility of HAp accommodating 1.2 wt% of selenite was 2.5 times higher than that of undoped HAp and the ensuing release of the selenite ion was directly responsible for inhibiting RAW264.7 osteoclasts. Dose-response curves demonstrated that the inhibition of osteoclasts was directly proportional to the concentration of selenite-doped HAp and to the selenite content in it. Meanwhile, selenite-doped HAp had a significantly less adverse effect on osteoblastic K7M2 and MC3T3-E1 cells than on RAW264.7 osteoclasts. The therapeutically promising osteoblast vs. osteoclast selectivity of inhibition was absent when the cells were challenged with undoped HAp, indicating that it is caused by selenite ions in HAp rather than by HAp alone. It is concluded that like three oxygens building the selenite pyramid, the coupling of (1) experimental materials science, (2) quantum mechanical modeling and (3) biological assaying is a triad from which a deeper understanding of ion-doped HAp and other biomaterials can emanate.

Surface modification of titanium manufactured through selective laser melting inhibited osteoclast differentiation through mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway

Selective laser melting used in manufacturing custom-made titanium implants becomes more popular. In view of the important role played by osteoclasts in peri-implant bone resorption and osseointegration, we modified selective laser melting-manufactured titanium surfaces using sandblasting/alkali-heating and sandblasting/acid-etching, and investigated their effect on osteoclast differentiation as well as their underlying mechanisms. The properties of the surfaces, including elements, roughness, wettability and topography, were analyzed. We evaluated the proliferation and morphology of primary mouse bone marrow-derived monocytes, as well as induced osteoclasts derived from bone marrow-derived monocytes, on samples. Then, osteoclast differentiation was determined by the tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity assay, calcitonin receptors immunofluorescence staining and the expression of osteoclast-related genes. The results showed that sandblasting/alkali-heating established nanonet structure with the lowest water contact angle, and both sandblasting/alkali-heating and sandblasting/acid-etching significantly decreased surface roughness and heterogeneity compared with selective laser melting. Surface modifications of selective laser melting-produced titanium altered bone marrow-derived monocyte morphology and suppressed bone marrow-derived monocyte proliferation and osteoclastogenesis in vitro (sandblasting/alkali-heating>sandblasting/acid-etching>selective laser melting). These surface modifications reduced the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinases compared to native-selective laser melting. Sandblasting/alkali-heating additionally blocked tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 recruitment. The results suggested that sandblasting/alkali-heating and sandblasting/acid-etching modifications on selective laser melting titanium could inhibit osteoclast differentiation through suppressing extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation in mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway and provide a promising technique which might reduce peri-implant bone resorption for optimizing native-selective laser melting implants.

Effects of hydroxyapatite surface nano/micro-structure on osteoclast formation and activity

The surface structure of calcium phosphate (CaP) ceramic plays an important role in its osteoinductivity; however, little is known about its effects on osteoclastogenesis. In this study, an intramuscular implantation model suggested a potential relationship between hydroxyapatite (HA)-induced bone formation and osteoclast appearance in the non-osseous site, which might be modulated by scaffold surface structure. Then, three dense HA discs with different grain sizes from biomimetic nanoscale (∼100 nm) to submicron scale (∼500 nm) were fabricated via distinct sintering procedures, and their impacts on osteoclastic differentiation of RAW 264.7 macrophages under RANKL stimulation were further investigated. Our results showed that compared with the ones in the submicron-scale dimension, nano-structured HA discs markedly impaired osteoclastic formation and function, as evidenced by inhibited cell fusion, reduced osteoclast size, less-defined actin ring, increased osteoclast apoptosis, suppressed expression of osteoclast specific genes and proteins, decreased TRAP-positive cells, and hampered resorption activity. This demonstrated that the surface structure of CaP ceramics has a great influence on osteoclastogenesis, which might be further related to its osteoinductive capacity. These findings might not only help us gain insight into biomolecular events during CaP-involved osteoinduction, but also offer a principle for designing orthopaedic implants with an ability of regulating both osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis to achieve the desired performance.

Bioinspired polydopamine and polyphenol tannic acid functionalized titanium suppress osteoclast differentiation: a facile and efficient strategy to regulate osteoclast activity at bone-implant interface

Osseointegration of metallic implants in porous osteoporotic bone remains a challenge. Surface modification of implants to reduce peri-implant osteoclastic bone resorption was explored in the study. Bioinspired polydopamine (pDOP) and polyphenol tannic acid (pTAN) are nature-derived universal coating systems that have emerged either as a sole coating or ad-layer for biomolecular conjugation on different biomaterials. The effects pDOP and pTAN on osteoclast development have not been reported before. In this study, osteoclast development was investigated on titanium (Ti) substrates coated with pDOP (Ti-pDOP) and pTAN (Ti-pTAN). The results showed that Ti-pDOP and Ti-pTAN coating reduced tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity and osteoclast cell number as compared with pristine Ti. Intriguingly, the reduction was higher on Ti-pTAN than on Ti-pDOP. Economical and biocompatible tannic acid serves as a superior coating in decreasing osteoclast activity when compared with that of pDOP coating and could be used to modulate osteoclast activity at bone-implant interfaces.

Current Advances in Immunomodulatory Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration

Biomaterials with suitable surface modification strategies are contributing significantly to the rapid development of the field of bone tissue engineering. Despite these encouraging results, utilization of biomaterials is poorly translated to human clinical trials potentially due to lack of knowledge about the interaction between biomaterials and the body defense mechanism, the "immune system". The highly complex immune system involves the coordinated action of many immune cells that can produce various inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Besides, bone fracture healing initiates with acute inflammation and may later transform to a regenerative or degenerative phase mainly due to the cross-talk between immune cells and other cells in the bone regeneration process. Among various immune cells, macrophages possess a significant role in the immune defense, where their polarization state plays a key role in the wound healing process. Growing evidence shows that the macrophage polarization state is highly sensitive to the biomaterial's physiochemical properties, and advances in biomaterial research now allow well controlled surface properties. This review provides an overview of biomaterial-mediated modulation of the immune response for regulating key bone regeneration events, such as osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and inflammation, and it discusses how these strategies can be utilized for future bone tissue engineering applications.

Combinatorial Surface Roughness Effects on Osteoclastogenesis and Osteogenesis

Implant surface properties are a key factor in bone responses to metallic bone implants. In view of the emerging evidence on the important role of osteoclasts in bone regeneration, we here studied how surface roughness affects osteoclastic differentiation and to what extent these osteoclasts have stimulatory effects on osteogenic differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells. For this, we induced osteoclasts derived from RAW264.7 cell line and primary mouse macrophages on titanium surfaces with different roughness ( R_a 0.02-3.63 μm) and analyzed osteoclast behavior in terms of cell number, morphology, differentiation, and further anabolic effect on osteoblastic cells. Surfaces with different roughness induced the formation of osteoclasts with distinct phenotypes, based on total osteoclast numbers, morphology, size, cytoskeletal organization, nuclearity, and osteoclastic features. Furthermore, these different osteoclast phenotypes displayed differential anabolic effects toward the osteogenic differentiation of osteoblastic cells, for which the clastokine CTHRC1 was identified as a causative factor. Morphologically, osteoclast potency to stimulate osteogenic differentiation of osteoblastic cells was found to logarithmically correlate with the nuclei number per osteoclast. Our results demonstrate the existence of a combinatorial effect of surface roughness, osteoclastogenesis, and osteogenic differentiation. These insights open up a new dimension for designing and producing metallic implants by considering the implant roughness to locally regulate osseointegration through coupling osteoclastogenesis with osteogenesis.

Nanochannelar Topography Positively Modulates Osteoblast Differentiation and Inhibits Osteoclastogenesis

Based on previously reported findings showing reduced foreign body reactions on nanochannelar topography formed on TiZr alloy, this study explores the in vitro effects of such a nanostructured surface on cells relevant for implant osseointegration, namely osteoblasts and osteoclasts. We show that such nanochannelar surfaces sustain adhesion and proliferation of mouse pre-osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells and enhance their osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, this specific nanotopography inhibits nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)-mediated osteoclastogenesis. The nanochannels’ dual mode of action on the bone-derived cells could contribute to an enhanced bone formation around the bone implants. Therefore, these results warrant further investigation for nanochannels’ use as surface coatings of medical implant materials.

Modulation of Osteoclast Interactions with Orthopaedic Biomaterials

Biomaterial integration in bone depends on bone remodelling at the bone-implant interface. Optimal balance of bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone deposition by osteoblasts is crucial for successful implantation, especially in orthopaedic surgery. Most studies examined osteoblast differentiation on biomaterials, yet few research has been conducted to explore the effect of different orthopaedic implants on osteoclast development. This review covers, in detail, the biology of osteoclasts, in vitro models of osteoclasts, and modulation of osteoclast activity by different implant surfaces, bio-ceramics, and polymers. Studies show that surface topography influence osteoclastogenesis. For instance, metal implants with rough surfaces enhanced osteoclast activity, while smooth surfaces resulted in poor osteoclast differentiation. In addition, surface modification of implants with anti-osteoporotic drug further decreased osteoclast activity. In bioceramics, osteoclast development depended on different chemical compositions. Strontium-incorporated bioceramics decreased osteoclast development, whereas higher concentrations of silica enhanced osteoclast activity. Differences between natural and synthetic polymers also modulated osteoclastogenesis. Physiochemical properties of implants affect osteoclast activity. Hence, understanding osteoclast biology and its response to the natural microarchitecture of bone are indispensable to design suitable implant interfaces and scaffolds, which will stimulate osteoclasts in ways similar to that of native bone.

RAW 264.7 co-cultured with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene particles spontaneously differentiate into osteoclasts: an in vitro model of periprosthetic osteolysis

Wear-particle osteolysis affects prosthesis survival leading to implant loosening up to 70% of revisions. Therapeutic strategies are increasing, however alternative testing methods to experimentally evaluate such treatments are lacking. The aim of this study was to reproduce an in vitro osteolysis model recapitulating the events that, starting from the exposure of macrophages to polyethylene, lead to the establishment of osteoclastogenesis and inflammation. Responses to polyethylene, at 3 and 7 days, in a macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7, were determined by DNA quantification, immunofluorescence, pit assay, gene expression, cytokine production and NF-kB activation. Results showed that 3 days exposure to particles could induce a significant production of Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (p < 0.0005) and Prostaglandin E₂ (p < 0.005) compared to controls. Particles also induced macrophages to spontaneously differentiate into mature and active osteoclasts, in terms of identification of multinucleated cells by Phalloidin staining and by the analysis of osteoclast-specific gene markers. In particular, at 3 days polyethylene induced a significant up-regulation of Nuclear Factor of Activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1, Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor Kappa-B and Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Ligand genes (p < 0.0005) compared to controls. At protein level, the particles induced a significant increase of Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Ligand at day 7 over controls (p < 0.0005). Osteoclasts were capable to resorb bone even in absence of differentiating factors. The possible mechanism, beside spontaneous osteoclastogenesis mediated by wear debris, was identified in an autocrine up-regulation of Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand gene expression and protein synthesis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 510-520, 2017.

The effects of implant topography on osseointegration under estrogen deficiency induced osteoporotic conditions: Histomorphometric, transcriptional and ultrastructural analysis

Compromised bone quality and/or healing in osteoporosis are recognised risk factors for impaired dental implant osseointegration. This study examined the effects of (1) experimentally induced osteoporosis on titanium implant osseointegration and (2) the effect of modified implant surface topography on osseointegration under osteoporosis-like conditions. Machined and micro-roughened surface implants were placed into the maxillary first molar root socket of 64 ovariectomised and sham-operated Sprague-Dawley rats. Subsequent histological and SEM observations showed tissue maturation on the micro-rough surfaced implants in ovariectomised animals as early as 3days post-implantation. The degree of osseointegration was also significantly higher around the micro-rough implants in ovariectomised animals after 14days of healing although by day 28, similar levels of osseointegration were found for all test groups. The micro-rough implants significantly increased the early (day 3) gene expression of alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand and dentin matrix protein 1 in implant adherent cells. By day 7, the expression of inflammatory genes decreased while the expression of the osteogenic markers increased further although there were few statistically significant differences between the micro-rough and machined surfaces. Osteocyte morphology was also affected by estrogen deficiency with the size of the cells being reduced in trabecular bone. In conclusion, estrogen deficiency induced osteoporotic conditions negatively influenced the early osseointegration of machined implants while micro-rough implants compensated for these deleterious effects by enhancing osteogenic cell differentiation on the implant surface.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Lower bone density, poor bone quality and osseous microstructural changes are all features characteristic of osteoporosis that may impair the osseointegration of dental implants. Using a clinically relevant trabecular bone model in the rat maxilla, we demonstrated histologically that the negative effects of surgically-induced osteoporosis on osseointegration could be ameliorated by the biomaterial's surface topography. Furthermore, gene expression analysis suggests this may be a result of enhanced osteogenic cell differentiation on the implant surface.

Influence of Fixture Thread Exposure on Marginal Bone Level Around Different Implant Systems: A Preliminary Study in Dogs

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of implant neck structures on marginal bone loss around intentionally exposed implant fixtures by histomorphometric analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four implants representing 3 implant systems were placed in three dogs; an implant system with SLA surface without microthreads (group A); one with SLA + calcium surface without microthreads (group B); and one with SLA surface with microthreads (group C). The histomorphometric analyses for vertical defect length (VDL), infrabony defect height (IDH), and defect depth (DD) were performed at the buccal and lingual sides of each fixture.

RESULTS

The VDL was lower in group A relative to groups B and C on the buccal and lingual sides. The IDH and DD were higher in group A than group C on the buccal and lingual sides; however, no statistically significant differences were noted between the groups in VDL, IDH, and DD on the buccal and lingual sides of the fixtures.

CONCLUSIONS

In this preliminary study, marginal bone resorption pattern in the canine mandible varied according to the neck design of each implant fixture. Further studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm the effect of microthreads and surface roughness on the marginal bone loss at the exposed implant fixture.

OsteoMacs: Key players around bone biomaterials

Osteal macrophages (OsteoMacs) are a special subtype of macrophage residing in bony tissues. Interesting findings from basic research have pointed to their vast and substantial roles in bone biology by demonstrating their key function in bone formation and remodeling. Despite these essential findings, much less information is available concerning their response to a variety of biomaterials used for bone regeneration with the majority of investigation primarily focused on their role during the foreign body reaction. With respect to biomaterials, it is well known that cells derived from the monocyte/macrophage lineage are one of the first cell types in contact with implanted biomaterials. Here they demonstrate extremely plastic phenotypes with the ability to differentiate towards classical M1 or M2 macrophages, or subsequently fuse into osteoclasts or multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs). These MNGCs have previously been characterized as foreign body giant cells and associated with biomaterial rejection, however more recently their phenotypes have been implicated with wound healing and tissue regeneration by studies demonstrating their expression of key M2 markers around biomaterials. With such contrasting hypotheses, it becomes essential to better understand their roles to improve the development of osteo-compatible and osteo-promotive biomaterials. This review article expresses the necessity to further study OsteoMacs and MNGCs to understand their function in bone biomaterial tissue integration including dental/orthopedic implants and bone grafting materials.

1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibits the differentiation and bone resorption by osteoclasts generated from Wistar rat bone marrow-derived macrophages

The steroid hormone 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ [1α,25-(OH)₂D₃] plays an important role in maintaining a balance in calcium and bone metabolism. To study the effects of 1α,25-(OH)₂D₃ on osteoclast (OC) formation and bone resorption, OC differentiation was induced in bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells from Wistar rats with the addition of macrophage colony stimulating factor and receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand in vitro. Cells were then treated with 1α,25-(OH)₂D₃ at 10^-9, 10^-8 or 10^-7 mol/l. OCs were identified using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and activity was monitored in the absorption lacunae by scanning electron microscopy. Expression levels of functional proteins associated with bone absorption, namely carbonic anhydrase II, cathepsin K and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were evaluated by western blot analysis. The results showed that 1α,25-(OH)₂D₃ inhibited the formation and activation of OCs in a dose-dependent manner and downregulated the expression levels of bone absorption-associated proteins.

Assessing the hierarchical structure of titanium implant surfaces

The physical texture of implant surfaces are known to be one important factor in creating a stable bone-implant interface. Simple roughness parameters (for e.g., Sa or Sz) are not entirely adequate when characterizing surfaces possessing hierarchical structure (macro, micro, and nano scales). The aim of this study was to develop an analytical approach to quantify hierarchical surface structure of implant surfaces possessing nearly identical simple roughness. Titanium alloys with macro/micro texture (MM) and macro/micro/nano texture (MMN) were chosen as model surfaces to be evaluated. There was no statistical difference (p > 0.05) in either Sa (13.56 vs. 13.43 µm) or Sz (91.74 vs. 92.39 µm) for the MM and MMN surfaces, respectively. However, when advanced filtering algorithms were applied to these datasets, a statistical difference in roughness was found between MM (Sa = 0.54 µm) and MMN (Sa = 1.06 µm; p < 0.05). Additionally, a method was developed to specifically quantify the density of surface features appearing similar in geometry to natural osteoclastic pits. This analysis revealed a significantly greater numbers of these features (i.e., valleys) on the MMN surface as compared to the MM surface. Finally, atomic force microscopy showed a rougher nano-texture on the MMN surface compared with the MM surface (p < 0.05). The results support recent published studies that show a combination of appropriate micron and nano surface results in a more robust cellular response and increased osteoblast differentiation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 1083-1090, 2016.

Drug delivery and cell interaction of adhesive poly(ethyleneimine)/sulfated polysaccharide complex particle films

Herein, the authors report and review polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with zoledronate (ZOL) and simvastatin and their effects on bone cells. PEC NPs are intended for modification of bone substitute materials. For characterization, they can be solution casted on germanium (Ge) substrates serving as analytically accessible model substrate. PEC NPs were generated by mixing poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) either with linear cellulose sulfate (CS) or with branched dextransulfate (DS). Four important requirements for drug loaded PEC NPs and their films are addressed herein, which are the colloidal stability of PEC dispersions (1), interfacial stability (2), cytocompatibility (3), and retarded drug release (4). Dynamic light scattering measurements (DLS) showed that both PEI/CS and PEI/DS PEC NP were obtained with hydrodynamic radii in the range of 35-170 nm and were colloidally stable up to several months. Transmission FTIR spectroscopy evidenced that films of both systems were stable in contact to the release medium up to several days. ZOL-loaded PEI/CS nanoparticles, which were immobilized on an osteoblast-derived extracellular matrix, reduced significantly the resorption and the metabolic activity of human monocyte-derived osteoclasts. FTIR spectroscopy at cast PEC/drug films at Ge substrates revealed retarded drug releases in comparison to the pure drug films.

Osteoclast resorption of beta-tricalcium phosphate controlled by surface architecture

A resorbable bone graft substitute should mimic native bone in its capacity to support bone formation and be remodeled by osteoclasts (OCl) or other multinucleated cells such as foreign body giant cells (FBGC). We hypothesize that by changing the scale of surface architecture of beta-tricalcium phosphate (TCP), cellular resorption can be influenced. CD14(+) monocyte precursors were isolated from human peripheral blood (n = 4 independent donors) and differentiated into OCl or FBGC on the surface of TCP discs comprising either submicron- or micron-scale surface topographical features (TCPs and TCPb, respectively). On submicrostructured TCPs, OCl survived, fused, differentiated, and extensively resorbed the substrate; however, on microstructured TCPb, OCl survival, TRAP activation, and fusion were attenuated. Importantly, no resorption was observed on microstructured TCPb. By confocal microscopy, OCl formed on TCPs contained numerous actin rings allowing for resorption, but not on TCPb. In comparison, FBGC could not resorb either TCP material, suggesting that osteoclast-specific machinery is necessary to resorb TCP. By tuning surface architecture, it appears possible to control osteoclast resorption of calcium phosphate. This approach presents a useful strategy in the design of resorbable bone graft substitutes.

Biomechanical and histological evaluation of roughened surface titanium screws fabricated by electron beam melting

BACKGROUND

Various fabrication methods are used to improve the stability and osseointegration of screws within the host bone. The aim of this study was to investigate whether roughened surface titanium screws fabricated by electron beam melting can provide better stability and osseointegration as compared with smooth titanium screws in sheep cervical vertebrae.

METHODS

Roughened surface titanium screws, fabricated by electron beam melting, and conventional smooth surface titanium screws were implanted into sheep for 6 or 12 weeks (groups A and B, respectively). Bone ingrowth and implant stability were assessed with three-dimensional imaging and reconstruction, as well as histological and biomechanical tests.

RESULTS

No screws in either group showed signs of loosening. Fibrous tissue formation could be seen around the screws at 6 weeks, which was replaced with bone at 12 weeks. Bone volume/total volume, bone surface area/bone volume, and the trabecular number were significantly higher for a define region of interest surrounding the roughened screws than that surrounding the smooth screws at 12 weeks. Indeed, for roughened screws, trabecular number was significantly higher at 12 weeks than at 6 weeks. On mechanical testing, the maximum pullout strength was significantly higher at 12 weeks than at 6 weeks, as expected; however, no significant differences were found between smooth and roughened screws at either time point. The maximum torque to extract the roughened screws was higher than that required for the smooth screws.

CONCLUSIONS

Electron beam melting is a simple and effective method for producing a roughened surface on titanium screws. After 12 weeks, roughened titanium screws demonstrated a high degree of osseointegration and increased torsional resistance to extraction over smooth titanium screws.

The role of osteoclasts in bone tissue engineering

The success of scaffold-based bone regeneration approaches strongly depends on the performance of the biomaterial utilized. Within the efforts of regenerative medicine towards a restitutio ad integrum (i.e. complete reconstruction of a diseased tissue), scaffolds should be completely degraded within an adequate period of time. The degradation of synthetic bone substitute materials involves both chemical dissolution (physicochemical degradation) and resorption (cellular degradation by osteoclasts). Responsible for bone resorption are osteoclasts, cells of haematopoietic origin. Osteoclasts play also a crucial role in bone remodelling, which is essential for the regeneration of bone defects. There is, however, surprisingly limited knowledge about the detailed effects of osteoclasts on biomaterials degradation behaviour. This review covers the relevant fundamental knowledge and progress made in the field of osteoclast activity related to biomaterials used for bone regeneration. In vitro studies with osteoclastic precursor cells on synthetic bone substitute materials show that there are specific parameters that inhibit or enhance resorption. Moreover, analyses of the bone-material interface reveal that biomaterials composition has a significant influence on their degradation in contact with osteoclasts. Crystallinity, grain size, surface bioactivity and density of the surface seem to have a less significant effect on osteoclastic activity. In addition, the topography of the scaffold surface can be tailored to affect the development and spreading of osteoclast cells. The present review also highlights possible areas on which future research is needed and which are relevant to enhance our understanding of the complex role of osteoclasts in bone tissue engineering.

Zinc in calcium phosphate mediates bone induction: in vitro and in vivo model

Zinc-containing tricalcium phosphate (Zn-TCP) was synthesized to investigate the role of zinc in osteoblastogenesis, osteoclastogenesis and in vivo bone induction in an ectopic implantation model. Zinc ions were readily released in the culture medium. Zn-TCP with the highest zinc content enhanced the alkaline phosphatase activity of human bone marrow stromal cells and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity, as well as multinuclear giant cell formation of RAW264.7 monocyte/macrophages. RAW264.7 cultured with different dosages of zinc supplements in medium with or without zinc-free TCP showed that zinc could influence both the activity and the formation of multinuclear giant cells. After a 12-week implantation in the paraspinal muscle of canines, de novo bone formation and bone incidence increased with increasing zinc content in Zn-TCP - up to 52% bone in the free space. However, TCP without zinc induced no bone formation. Although the observed bone induction cannot be attributed to zinc release alone, these results indicate that zinc incorporated in TCP can modulate bone metabolism and render TCP osteoinductive, indicating to a novel way to enhance the functionality of this synthetic bone graft material.