Effect of metal ions on monocyte-macrophage cells viability and RANK expression / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Similar to other prosthesis, metal-metal prosthesis would produce plenty of wear particles and metal ions, mainly presented as cobalt (Co~(2+)) and chromium (Cr~(3+)), which can lead to osteolysis, eventually, result in aseptic loosening. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of Co~(2+) and Cr~(3+) ions on the cells viability and expression of RANK in rats m0nocyte-macrophage cells (RAW264.7) in vitro. METHODS: Monocyte-macrophage cells (RAW264.7) were cultured in vitro, and then the cells were exposed to Co~(2+) and Cr~(3+) ions. The cell viability was assured by MTT test and the level of RANK Mrna was detected by semi-quantitative RT-PCR at different times. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared to the control group, MTT test demonstrated that Co~(2+) and Cr~(3+)ions could decrease the cell activity of monocyte-macrophage cells obviously. When the cells were exposed to Co~(2+) Cr~(3+) ions, compared to the control group, the Mrna expression of RANK of the metal ions group was increased at 12 hours (P < 0.05), reached its peak level at 24 hours (P < 0.05), and decreased at 48 hours than that of 24 hours (P < 0.05). The results revealed that metal ions have a cytotoxic effect on monocyte-macrophage cells, stimulate the expression of RANK, and have the potential of facilitating monocyte-macrophages cells transform into osteoclast-like cells.