PDLCs and EPCs Co-Cultured on Ta Discs: A Golden Fleece for “Compromised” Osseointegration

Abstract

Material research in tissue engineering forms a vital link between basic cell research and animal research. Periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs, P) from the tooth have an osteogenic effect, whereas endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs, E) assist in neovascularization. In the present study, the interaction of PDLCs and EPCs with Tantalum (Ta, I) discs, either alone (IP or IE group) or in 1:1 (IPE) ratio was explored. Additionally, surface analysis of Ta discs with respect to different types and cycles of sterilization and disinfection procedures was evaluated. It was observed that Ta discs could be used for a maximum of three times, after which the changes in properties of Ta discs were detrimental to cell growth, irrespective of the type of the protocol. Cell-Disc’s analysis revealed that cell proliferation in the IE group at day 6 and day 10 was significantly higher (p p < 0.05). In conclusion, Ta discs promoted cellular proliferation and increased osteogenic and angiogenic activity by augmenting RUNX-2 and VEGFR-2 activity.

Keywords

• osteogenesis
• neovascularization
• osseointegration
• VEGFR-2
• RUNX-2