Osteogenesis and angiogenesis of a bulk metallic glass for biomedical implants.

Sun, K; Fu, R; Liu, X W; Xu, L M; Wang, G; Chen, S Y; Zhai, Q J; Pauly, S · Bioact Mater · 2022

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Implantation is an essential issue in orthopedic surgery. Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), as a kind of novel materials, attract lots of attentions in biological field owing to their comprehensive excellent properties. Here, we show that a Zr<sub>61</sub>Ti<sub>2</sub>Cu<sub>25</sub>Al<sub>12</sub> (at. %) BMG (Zr-based BMG) displays the best cytocompatibility, pronounced positive effects on cellular migration, and tube formation from <i>in-vitro</i> tests as compared to those of commercial-pure titanium and poly-ether-ether-ketone. The <i>in-vivo</i> micro-CT and histological evaluation demonstrate the Zr-based BMG can significantly promote a bone formation. Immunofluorescence tests and digital reconstructed radiographs manifest a stimulated effect on early blood vessel formation from the Zr-based BMG. Accordingly, the intimate connection and coupling effect between angiogenesis and osteogenesis must be effective during bone regeneration after implanting Zr-based BMG. Dynamic gait analysis in rats after implanting Zr-based BMG demonstrates a tendency to decrease the pain level during recovery, simultaneously, without abnormal ionic accumulation and inflammatory reactions. Considering suitable mechanical properties, we provide a realistic candidate of the Zr<sub>61</sub>Ti<sub>2</sub>Cu<sub>25</sub>Al<sub>12</sub> BMG for biomedical applications.