Carbon nanohorn coating on titanium promotes M2 macrophage polarization

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) coated on titanium surfaces on macrophage responses. The CNHs were electrodeposited on titanium discs to create a uniform coating with a thickness of 0.2–0.3 µm. Analysis of macrophages cultured on CNH-modified titanium (CNH/Ti) revealed decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL6) and increased IL10 gene expression compared to unmodified titanium. Immunofluorescence analysis showed higher expression of the M2 marker CD206 and lower expression of the M1 marker CD86 on the CNH/Ti surfaces. Gene expression analysis indicated downregulation of genes involved in DNA transcription, repair, and replication, correlating with controlled cell proliferation on CNH/Ti. These findings demonstrate that CNH modification on titanium surfaces influences macrophage cytokine production and phenotype marker expression, suggesting its potential application in dental implant development.