Biodegredable Mg and Mg alloys: Tailoring the degradation rate and biocompatibility by surface modifications

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The aim of the present proposal is to systematically explore and tailor the biocompatibility and degradation rate of magnesium (Mg) in an aequeous, physiologic environment. The corrosion rate of pure Mg under such conditions is prohibitively high for cell adhesion and growth. Traditionally, this problem has been tackled by designing more stable Mg alloys. As an alternative strategy, we propose here to passivate the Mg or Mg alloy surface so that cells have a chance adhere and form a cell layer that protects against further rapid corrosion. Preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of this strategy. Surface modifications include passivation, anodization and biofunctionalization approaches to optimize surface chemistry, reactivity, morphology, and wettability for improved cell adhesion, survival and differentiation. We will then go on to explore the influence of the cell culture medium, buffer composition, protein coating and the presence of a cell layer on the corrosion processes of Mg. Cell experiments are guided by a mechanistic, “frustrated adhesion” hypothesis. Accordingly, cell behavior on mechanically stiff but corroding surfaces is governed by the same principles that govern cell behavior on soft matrices. The project will be carried out in collaboration between a research group specialized in corrosion, electrochemistry, and surface science, and a research group specialized in cell/materialsinteractions.