Effect of implant surface microtopography on proliferation, neurotrophin secretion, and gene expression of Schwann cells.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different implant surface properties on the morphology, proliferation, neurotrophin secretion, and gene expression of Schwann cells. Four types of implant surfaces, including ground (smooth surface), sandblasted and acid-etched (SLA), hydroxyapatite-coated (HA), and titanium plasma spray (TPS) surfaces were fabricated and photographed by a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Schwann cells derived from neonatal rats were cultured on the implant surfaces and assessed via SEM observation and methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) colorimetric assay. The secretions and mRNA levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative real time RT-PCR, respectively, on days 3 and 7. Tissue culture plastic was used as a control. The results demonstrated that Schwann cells exhibited typical bipolar spindle morphology on various surfaces, and proliferated faster than the control. Neurotrophin secretion and gene expression of both BDNF and NGF were also increased by implant surfaces. This study suggests that the function of Schwann cells can be enhanced by implant implants.