Optimization of Nano-Titania and Titania–Chitosan Nanocomposite to Enhance Biocompatibility

K.      Kavitha; M.      Prabhu; V.      Rajendran; P.      Manivasankan; P.      Prabu; T.      Jayakumar

doi:10.2174/1573413711309030003

Abstract

Nano-structured titania (TiO2) has received considerable attention in the field of biomedical research because of its numerous advantages and few health concerns. To produce good biocompatible biomaterial, we synthesized different structural nano-TiO2 and TiO2–chitosan (CH) nanocomposite by precipitation, hydrothermal, and in situ sol–gel methods. The prepared samples were characterized comprehensively. Nano-TiO2 prepared by precipitation and hydrothermal methods (sintered at 673 K) showed an anatase phase with spherical morphology, whereas precipitation at 393 K confirmed amorphous phase. In situ synthesized composites were amorphous and had irregular morphology. The samples were further analyzed for in vitro bioactivity, antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity. The characterization after bioactivity study confirmed formation of stoichiometric ratio of hydroxyapatite on TiO2–CH nanocomposite compared with other TiO2 samples. No significant cytotoxic effect of all the samples on gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) human cell line was observed. This study shows that method of synthesis has no significant effect on the bioactivity and antibacterial activity, whereas it influences cytotoxicity. However, TiO2–CH nanocomposite has an important function in conferring better biocompatibility. Thus, TiO2-based polymer composites prepared with appropriate synthesis methods are recommended for implant and tissue engineering applications.

Keywords: Titania, titania–chitosan, cytotoxicity, biocompatibility, antibacterial activity, in vitro bioactivity.

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