Nanotopografinin Stromal Hücre Davranışı Üzerine Etkisinin Moleküler Düzeyde Araştırılması

Abstract

In this study, the effects of nanotopographical modifications on titanium surfaces—achieved via electrochemical anodization—on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) behavior were investigated. Nanotube surfaces generated under various anodization parameters were evaluated in terms of cellular adhesion, spreading, viability, and regenerative responses at the molecular level. Surface characterization revealed significant variations in physicochemical properties such as morphology, surface energy, and surface potential. These differences directly influenced cellular adaptation, oxidative stress responses, and susceptibility to apoptosis. Molecular analyses demonstrated that the cellular responses to these surfaces were not limited to morphological changes but also involved substantial genetic modulation. In particular, upregulation of genes associated with cytoskeletal organization, extracellular matrix production, angiogenesis, and migration indicated that certain nanotopographic variants promote regenerative processes. Conversely, the downregulation of genes related to ribosomal proteins suggested that cells prioritize energy management during adaptation to the modified microenvironment. The findings reveal that surface nanotopography functions not merely as a passive physical substrate but as an active biological parameter capable of directing cell fate. Notably, some surface designs were shown to activate gene pathways that enhance regenerative responses, positioning them as strong candidates for future biomedical applications. This dissertation deepens the understanding of the interface between surface engineering and cellular behavior and offers novel insights for the design of more effective biomaterials in tissue engineering.