Nanotopographical Titanium Surfaces Promote Cellular Bioenergetics through Mitochondrial Modulation

doi:10.13701/j.cnki.kqyxyj.2026.08.010

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the effects of nanotopographical titanium surfaces on mitochondrial function and metabolic activity in pre-osteoblasts. Methods: Nanotubular structures (~100 nm) were fabricated by anodization. Surface morphology, cell metabolic activity, adhesion, and morphology were assessed. Mitochondrial network was analyzed by confocal microscopy, and expression of mitochondrial-related genes was measured by RT-PCR. Results: Nanotubular surfaces were uniform. Metabolic activity was similar on day 1 but increased on day 7. Cells spread irregularly on nanotopographical surfaces versus elongated on unmodified titanium. Mitochondria were evenly distributed, and nanotopography reduced branch number without affecting area or branch length. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (Pgc-1α) was upregulated ~24-fold on day 1; however, other genes remained unchanged. Furthermore, Pgc-1α protein expression was not affected by titanium nanotube structure. Conclusion: Nanotopographical titanium enhances cell metabolism by modulating mitochondrial network and bioenergetics. Early Pgc-1α upregulation suggests mitochondrial biogenesis activation, improving energy status and osteogenic potential, providing insights for implant surface design.

Key words: titanium surface modification, nanotopography, mitochondrial function, cellular metabolism, gene expression

WU Yue, HE Yangfan. Nanotopographical Titanium Surfaces Promote Cellular Bioenergetics through Mitochondrial Modulation[J]. Journal of Oral Science Research, 2026, 42(8): 696-701.

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