The effect of etched 3D printed Cu-bearing titanium alloy on the polarization of macrophage

Abstract

3D printed titanium alloys have been widely used as implants in orthopedic surgery and dentistry. In recent years, Cu-bearing titanium alloys have shown great advantages in tissue engineering due to their excellent antibacterial activity and biological effect. In the current study, three alloys, namely, TC4 alloy, TC4-5Cu alloy, and TC4-6Cu alloy were fabricated by the use of selective laser melting (SLM) technology. Acid etching treatment was used to remove the metal powders on the samples and modify the surface of the manufactured alloys. The effect of different etched alloys on the biological behavior of macrophages (RAW 264.7) was studied comprehensively. Results showed that acid etching had no effect on the hydrophilicity, while contributing to the adhesion and polarization of macrophages with a lower ROS level. Moreover, Cu-bearing titanium exhibited better cell adhesion, macrophage polarization potential, and a lower ROS level. In summary, acid etching treatment provided a promising strategy to improve the biological properties of the Cu-bearing titanium alloys by SLM.