Mg/Zn-Modified 3D-Printed Implants: Dual-Functional Tissue Integration

This study investigates the dual-functional mechanisms of Mg/Zn-modified 3D-printed titanium implants in enhancing soft tissue integration and antibacterial activity. In vitro experiments evaluated human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) adhesion (FITC-phalloidin), migration, and collagen synthesis (qPCR/WB). In vivo studies implanted Mg/Zn-modified or control devices bilaterally in 18 male New Zealand rabbits (6-month-old) for 4 weeks (Ethics No. XX-2023). Analytical methods included SEM, fluorescence imaging (Calcein), microbial biofilm assays, and ELISA for inflammatory cytokines. Data were analyzed by ANOVA (p<0.05). Mg/Zn implants increased HGF adhesion density by 2.3-fold (p=0.008), accelerated soft tissue closure by 58% (p=0.002), and reduced Porphyromonas gingivalis biofilm by 75%. Collagen-I and TGF-β expression increased 1.8- and 2.1-fold respectively (p<0.01). Mg/Zn surface modification synergistically enhances tissue integration through integrin-mediated collagen deposition and Zn-induced antibacterial effects, providing a dual-functional solution to improve implant longevity.