OBJECTIVETo compare the synthetic ability of osteoblasts on the surface of different nano-granule titanium films and investigate the correlation between nanophase titanium films and cellular biocompatibility.

METHODSFour different nano-granule titanium films were produced by direct current magnetron sputtering, at ambient, 100 degrees C, 250 degrees C, 380 degrees C substrate temperature, respectively. Rat osteoblasts were seeded on the surface of four treated groups of titanium film samples and non-treated Ti sample(control group). The production of osteocalcin (OC) in all five groups were detected by using double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTSThe production of OC increased gradually from day 7 to day 14 in all groups. In the control group, it showed significant differences with other five groups on day 7. On day 14, the production of OC in 100 degrees C group was the highest, and it showed significant differences with 380 degrees C, control group and blank group. In 250 degrees C group, the production of OC also showed significant differences with 380 degrees C, control group and blank group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONTitanium with nano-modified surface had good biocompatibility and different nano-granule titanium films could affect the synthesis of osteoblasts.