The modulation of stem cell behaviors by functionalized nanoceramic coatings on Ti-based implants

•The effects of basic physical properties like roughness, topography and porous stucture of ceramic coatings on the stem cells behaviors on Ti-based alloys have been reviewed together.•The chemical way to modulate the cell behaviors is also discussed in this review paper; and the related mechanotransduction pathways have been described in this paper.

Nanoceramic coating on the surface of Ti-based metallic implants is a clinical potential option in orthopedic surgery. Stem cells have been found to have osteogenic capabilities. It is necessary to study the influences of functionalized nanoceramic coatings on the differentiation and proliferation of stem cells in vitro or in vivo. In this paper, we summarized the recent advance on the modulation of stem cells behaviors through controlling the properties of nanoceramic coatings, including surface chemistry, surface roughness and microporosity. In addition, mechanotransduction pathways have also been discussed to reveal the interaction mechanisms between the stem cells and ceramic coatings on Ti-based metals. In the final part, the osteoinduction and osteoconduction of ceramic coating have been also presented when it was used as carrier of BMPs in new bone formation.

Graphical abstractThe schematical illustration of effects of physical and chemical properties of ceramic coatings on the behaviors of stem cells.Download high-res image (205KB)Download full-size image