Quantitative PCR: A promising technique investigating the early bone-implant interface

• Objectives: Studies on the early tissue response to materials are difficult due to the inaccessibility of the interface zone and lack of sensitive techniques. The purpose of the present study was to apply quantitative PCR (qPCR) in combination with LM and SEM for the evaluation of early gene expression response as well as cellular reactions close to titanium implants. Experimental methods: Anodically oxidized titanium (TiUniteTM; Nobel Biocare AB) and machined titanium implants (2mm×2mm) were inserted in the rat tibia. After 1,3, and 6 days, implants were unscrewed and surrounding bone was retrieved. Both the implants and bone were analyzed with qPCR, routine histology and SEM. The amount of mRNA was normalized to 18S protein subunit. Results: After the initial inflammatory response, the tissue located inside the threads became rapidly organized. SEM analysis showed mesenchymal-like cells extending their processes into the pores of the anodically oxidized surface. qPCR demonstrated significantly higher 18S around anodically oxidized screws and in the surrounding tissues. Alkaline phosphatase (osteoblast marker), TRAP and Cathepsin K (osteoclast markers) mRNA, but not the inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha and IL-1beta) were expressed at different levels around the two surfaces. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that the experimental model and qPCR provide interesting possibilities to analyze the mechanisms of osseointegration. Furthermore, remodelling and in particular the molecular processes occur at implant surfaces in vivo already 3 days after implantation. Support: Swedish Research Council and the Institute for Biomaterials and Cell Therapy, Göteborg, Sweden

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinsk bioteknologi -- Biomaterialvetenskap (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Medical Biotechnology -- Biomaterials Science (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

implants

Bone

Gene expression

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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