Development of a new system for evaluating the biocompatibility of implant materials using an osteogenic cell line (MC3T3-E1).

A new culture system was developed to clarify the biocompatibility of implant materials with bone tissue using the MC3T3-E1 osteogenic cell line. The cells were inoculated onto specimens such as aluminium oxide, titanium, dental casting silver-palladium alloy (PD), and a plastic coverslip. To study the effects of these materials on cell growth, differentiation, and calcification, DNA and protein content, alkaline phosphatase activity, and calcium content, respectively, were determined. The results from biochemical analysis suggest titanium and aluminum oxide to have adequate biocompatibility, while PD has an irritant effect on cell metabolism. It is clear that an objective view of the differentiation and calcification processes of osteogenic cells can be understood through such analysis. From the results of this study, our culture system appears suitable for evaluating the biocompatibility of implant materials with bone tissue.