Effect of enamel matrix derivative on proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast cells grown on the titanium implant surface

Objectives. Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) is widely used in promoting periodontal regeneration, but the mechanisms underlying its effects are not entirely clear. In particular, the effect of EMD on osseointegration of dental implants and its application in the treatment of peri-implantitis are still debatable. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of EMD on proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts grown on the Ti implant surface. Study design. Osteoblast-like MG-63 cells were seeded on coarse-grit-blasted and acid-etched surface Ti implant disks and stimulated with various EMD concentrations. Cell proliferation/viability, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin production, and expression levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) were determined. Results. EMD inhibited the proliferation/viability of MG-63 cells. Furthermore, EMD significantly increased the alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin production in MG-63 cells grown on Ti surfaces. Finally, EMD enhanced mRNA expression level of OPG and did not influence that of RANKL. Conclusion(s): Application of EMD in the dental implantolology may have a positive effect on implant osseointegration, and further studies are required to improve clinical outcome. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2011;111:517-522)