Evaluation of bioactive coatings for titanium surfaces: a proteomic approach

Abstract

Titanium is among the most commonly used metals as a standard treatment for bone defects. Despite its excellent mechanical and biocompatibility properties, Ti is relatively bioinert and surface modifications are necessary to improve its bioactivity. The sol-gel process allows this modification through the development of coatings with controlled release of bioactive compounds. On the other hand, the growing demand for biomaterials with better performances created the need to develop new in vitro methods more predictive of in vivo results. Considering this, the application of proteomics represents an interesting alternative to be explored. Herewith, the present doctoral thesis aimed to develop sol-gel coatings doped with different bioactive compounds and its characterization employing proteomics to determine predictive biomarkers of possible in vivo results.