A novel micro/nanostructured titanium surface that assists osteoblasts breaking out of bacteria

Many antibacterial materials have been introduced on the surface of titanium-based implants to decrease the implant associated infection. However, the cytotoxicity is often associated with the antibacterial ability, resulting in the dilemma to achieve both excellent antibacterial and biological properties. In this study, the anodized nanotubes were incorporated on the sand blasted and acid etched (SLA) Ti surface to achieve a novel micro/nanostructure. The novel structure was found to support the growth of osteoblasts and bacteria on its surface in separate monoculture, but when the osteoblasts and bacteria were co-cultured on it, the micro/nanostructure can assist the osteoblasts to break out from the bacteria during their competitive growth and lead to the extinction of bacteria, endowing the Ti surface with good biological and antibacterial properties. The competing advantage of osteoblasts may be attributed to the improved surface energy and protein adsorption capacity. Because this micro/nanostructure can be prepared easily and economically, function well without any side effects caused by foreign substances, and it is really suitable for the implanted microenvironment where both osteoblasts and bacteria cannot be avoided, it has promising applications as implant material.