Enhancing osteoblast functions on a magnesia partially stabilised zirconia bioceramic by means of laser irradiation

In order to promote and sustain osteointegration of surrounding bone, a CO₂ laser has been used to modify a magnesia partially stabilised zirconia (MgO-PSZ) for improved osteoblast cells' functions. The surface characterisation revealed that the increase in surface roughness, surface oxygen content and surface energy brought about the higher wettability characteristics of the MgO-PSZ following CO₂ laser irradiation. The alkaline phosphatase synthesis, osteocalcin production and proliferation of human fetal osteoblasts (hFOB) were investigated using in vitro cellular models. It was found that the osteoblasts performed better on the CO₂ laser treated sample than on the untreated sample in terms of these functions of osteoblasts. Wettability characteristics, which could influence protein adsorption and initial cell response, could be predominant mechanism active in improvement of the cell functions. The results of the study provided evidence that laser irradiation could be a promising surface processing tool of bioceramic for improved bonding with bone.