Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the effect of sandblast and acid etching treatments on attachment, proliferation, and differentiation of osteoblasts on Ti and Ti-24Nb-4Zr-7.9Sn (TNZS). Methods: Samples were divided into four groups: Ti group, Ti-SLA group, TNZS group, and TNZS-SLA group. Ti and TNZS groups were polished with different rough emery papers, Ti-SLA and TNZS-SLA groups were polished with different rough emery papers and sandblasted by Al2O3 particles and acid etched by mixture of hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid. Surface morphology of the samples was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Contact angles were examined by Tensiometer and Contact Angle Meter. Roughness of samples was examined by 3D laser scanning confocal microscope. MC3T3-E1 were seeded on the surface of four groups of samples and evaluated by different means. Results: Ti-SLA and TNZS-SLA surfaces exhibited micro-topographical and nano-topographical modifications and roughness distributed evenly. After treatment, four groups had similar hydrophilicity. The adhesion of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts showed that Ti and TNZS had higher attachment than SLA groups (P<0.05). TNZS-SLA showed the highest proliferation and differentiation (P<0.05). Conclusion: SLA surface treatment generates porous microstructures and nanostructures. It can enhance proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts. TNZS alloy treated by sandblast and acid etching possesses good cytocompatibility.

Key words: Sandblast and acid etching, MC3T3-E1 , Ti-24Nb-4Zr-7.9Sn, Cell proliferation and differentiation