PNb₉O₂₅-CaNb₂O₆-β-TCP bioceramics: structural and cell viability studies

Full text: In the recent years, the search for artificial materials for orthopedic applications has been intensified. The advances in bone replacement field are linked to the specific properties of these materials [1]. In this work a nanostructured hydroxyapatite and niobium pentoxide composite are being proposed as an alternative to bone replacement. The composite in eutectic composition was sintered at 1080 °C. DRX and Raman studies show three new crystalline phases PNb₉O₂₅, Ca₃(PO₄)₂ and CaNb₂O₆ after sintering process. The composite presented negative zeta potential (-30.7 ± 0.3 mV) at ambient temperature and at 37°C (- 20.4 ± 0.5 mV) that is important for biomedical applications in bone tissues [2]. Moreover, the material presented a good cell viability in MTT tests by using fibroblast and pre-osteoblast cells. The material also increase the amount of the pre-osteoblast cells after 48h of incubation. Lastly, the composite is a promising material to facilitate bone cell activity and might prove to be useful as implant coatings and other biological applications. References [1] T. Kokubo, Bioceramics and their clinical applications (Woodhead Publishing Limited, England 2008). [2] A. Doostmohammadi et al. Bioactive glass nanoparticles with negative zeta potential. Ceramics International. 37 (2011), 2311-2316 1052. (author)