Osteoblast activity of MG-63 cells is enhanced by growth on a lactoferrin-immobilized titanium substrate

The aim of this study was to develop a lactoferrin (LF)-immobilized titanium (Ti) substrate to enhance the osteoblast activity of MG-63 cells. Ti substrates were first modified through heparin–dopamine (Hep–DOPA) anchorage. Then, LF was immobilized on the Hep–Ti substrates via electrostatic interactions. Hep–Ti substrates, with or without LF, were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle measurements. Sustained release of LF on the Ti substrates was observed over a 28-day period. In vitro studies of osteoblast activity showed increased alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition by MG-63 cells cultured on LF-immobilized Ti substrates as compared to those cultured on pristine Ti substrates, indicating that LF-immobilized Ti substrates were effective at enhancing osteoblast activity.