Purpose: To evaluate the effects of enamel matrix proteins(EMPs) on the growth of apatite coatings on dual thermo-etching or alkali heat-treated pure titanium(Ti).
Methods: EMPs were extracted from porcine tooth germs and identified by SDS-PAGE. Dual thermo-etching treated or alkali-heat treated Ti samples, then, were exposed in a blank or EMPs containing(150microg/mL) modified simulated body fluid(m-SBF) at 37degrees centigrade for 7 days. SEM, EDS, XRD and FTIR were employed to observe or analyze the morphologies, element components and crystal structures of the apatite coatings.
Results: In dual thermo-etching-treated groups, almost no calcium-phosphate deposits were found on the titanium surfaces of control group and some amount of calcium-phosphate deposits with the main element components of Ca, P, O and C, however, formed on those of experimental group. But in alkali heat-treated groups, the apatite coatings proved to be carbonate hydroxyapatite formed on the titanium surfaces of both control group and experimental group, and the apatite coatings of the latter were found porous(300-600nm) and uneven.
Conclusions: Alkali heat-treatment is in favor of apatite deposition, and EMPs can promote apatite deposition on both dual thermo-etching and alkali heat-treated pure titanium surfaces.