Improved drug incorporation and in vitro osteogenic effect of baicalin coating on different modified titanium surfaces

Poor osseointegration has been regarded as a cause of implant failure in the early stage of healing. Baicalin (BC) is a flavonoid that can promote osteoblastic differentiation. To study the effects of BC coated on implants, this study incorporated BC onto commonly used modified titanium surfaces, such as TiO 2 nanotubes (TNTs), alkali-heated (AH) surfaces and sandblasted acid-etched (SLA) surfaces. The biocompatibility of different titanium surfaces was demonstrated by in vitro study. The effects on osteoblastic differentiation were determined based on ALP activity and the expression of osteogenic proteins. The results revealed that higher concentrations of BC can promote osteoblastic differentiation but also greater inhibition of cell proliferation. Different modified surfaces coated with BC all showed satisfactory biocompatibility. Among them, TNTs with BC coating exhibited optimal incorporation and osteoinduction. It indicates that BC-coated TNTs possess enhanced cell affinity and osteogenesis and have great potential for application in implant dentistry. Graphical abstract