The effect of TiO2 nanotubes on endothelial function and smooth muscle proliferation

In this study we investigate the effects of nanotubular titanium oxide (TiO2) surfaces on vascular cells. EC and VSMC response to nanotubes was investigated through immunofluorescence staining, scanning electron microscopy, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine proliferation assays, and prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) enzyme immunoassays. We found that the nanotubular surface significantly enhances EC proliferation and secretion of PGI2. The surface also results in a decrease in VSMC proliferation and increased expression of smooth muscle α-actin. These data suggest that engineered nanotopographical cues may influence both EC and VSMC behavior in a manner that may be useful for stent or other vascular applications.