The evaluation of cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of Ti-Ta-Nb-base alloy

Cui, De Zhe; Vang, Mong Sook; Yoon, Taek Rin

Abstract

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Ti-alloy has been used widely since it was produced in the United States in 1947 because it has high biocompatibility and anticorrosive characteristics. PURPOSE: The pure titanium, however, was used limitedly due to insufficient mechanical charateristics and difficult manufacturing process. Our previous study was focused on the development of a new titanium alloy. In the previous study we found that the Ti-Ta-Nb alloy had better mechanical characteristics and similar anticorrosive characteristics to Ti-6Al-4V. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this study, the cytotoxicity of the Ti-Ta-Nb alloy was evaluated by MTT assay using MSCs(Mesenchaimal stem cells) and L929 cells(fibroblast cell line). The biocompatibility of the Ti-Ta-Nb alloy was performed by inserting the alloy into the femur of the rabbits and observing the radiological and histological changes surrounding the alloy implant.
RESULTS
1. In the cytotoxicity test using MSCs, the 60% survival rate was observed in pure titanium, 84% in Ti-6Al-4V alloy, and 95% in Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy. 2. In the animal study, the serial follow-up of the radiographs showed no separation or migration revealing gradual bone ingrowth surrounding the implants. Similar radiographic results were obtained among three implant groups: pure titanium, Ti-6Al-4V alloy and Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy. 3. In the histologic examination of the bone block containing the implants. the bone ingrowth was prominent around the implants with the lapse of time. There was no signs of any tissue rejection, degeneration, or inflammation. Active bone ingrowth was observed around the implants. In the comparison of the three groups, the rate of bone ingrowth was better in the Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy group than those in pure titanium group or Ti-6Al-4V alloy group. In conclusion, Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy revealed better biocompatibility in survival rate of the cells and bone ingrowth around the implants. Therefore we believe a newly developed Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy can replace currently used Ti-6Al-4V alloy to increase biocompatibility and to decrease side effects.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy revealed better biocompatibility in survival rate of the cells and bone ingrowth around the implants. Therefore we believe a newly developed Ti-10Ta-10Nb alloy can replace currently used Ti-6Al-4V alloy to increase biocompatibility and to decrease side effects.