Bacterial Cells Response to Osteogenic Nanopatterns

Abstract

The presence of implants in the body is frequently associated with a high risk of peri-implant infections. The host and the bacterial cells compete to adhere and grow on the implant surface. Therefore, producing an implant that can promote the stem cells function (e.g., osteogenic differentiation) while reducing bacterial colonization is vital. By applying controlled topography on the surface, the behavior of stem cells and bacteria can be influenced. In this study, early interactions between bacteria and osteogenic nanopatterns were investigated. Five different nanopatterns were produced by electron beam induced deposition. The nanopatterns were then incubated with E. coli K12 strain for 18 hours. Thereafter, the samples were investigated by scanning electron microscope to assess the morphology and the adhesion of bacteria. Based on the experimental results, most of the nanopatterns exhibited a positive effect in reducing bacterial cells adhesion. Moreover, two nanopatterns with heights of 130 nm and 60 nm exhibited bactericidal properties. Possible bactericidal mechanisms have been proposed based on closer examination of the bacteria-nanopattern interface and computational analysis of the interfacial forces. This study investigated the effects of osteogenic nanopatterns on bacterial cells response for the first time. The findings suggested that nanopatterns with both osteogenic and antibacterial properties may be developed for bone implant applications.