Assessment of the early interaction of chondrocytes with different materials

Previous studies have demonstrated that chondrocytes grown on porous structures of Ti6Al4V and calcium polyphosphate substrates will form cartilagenous tissue in vitro. In this study, the early interactions of chondrocytes with these materials was examined.; More cells attached to CPP as compared to Ti6Al4V. The cells were rounded but more spread on CPP relative to Ti6Al4V. Confocal microscopy demonstrated subcortical distribution of actin and punctate distribution of vinculin. Integrins containing β₁ subunit appear to be involved in cell spreading which was also influenced by the presence of serum in the culture medium. Some annexin V staining was seen in cells on Ti6Al4V but was absent in the cells grown on CPP. CD44 was seen at the cell membrane in occasional cells grown on CPP and Ti6Al4V. Proteoglycan and collagen synthesis and retention did not differ significantly between cells on the CPP and Ti6Al4V.