Functionalization of a zirconia surface by covalently immobilized fibronectin and its effects on resistance to thermal, acid, and mechanical exposure

In this study, we investigated the stability of the 3-aminopropyldiisopropylethoxysilane (APDS) layer on yttria-partially stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) surfaces after mechanical, acid, and thermal treatment in order to simulate fluctuations within the oral cavity. To accomplish that, the viability of human gingival fibroblasts on APDS-modified surfaces after applied treatment strategies was assessed by live/dead staining. Moreover, the hydrolysis stability and enzymatic degradation resistance of crosslinked fibronectin to the APDS layer was examined by immunostaining and western blot. The results revealed that the applied modifications were not affected by the different treatment conditions and could withstand the fluctuations in the oral cavity. Furthermore, crosslinked fibronectin on silanized Y-TZP was stable against hydrolysis over 21  days and enzymatic degradation. We thus can conclude that the proposed functionalization method has high potential to tolerate harmful effects within the oral cavity and remains unchanged on the surface.
Source: Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterials - Category: Materials Science Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research