Construction of micro/nano-sized and multilayered TiO₂-Based bioceramics coated with zein and calcium phosphate

TiO₂-based bioceramics have been widely studied because of their biocompatibility, chemical stability, photocatalytic properties, and controllable size and shape. Surface modification techniques for TiO₂ have been utilized to enhance its mechanical and biological characteristics for future applications in dentistry, implants, and tissue engineering. In this study, we developed a simplified method for constructing TiO₂-based bioceramics coated with Zein and calcium phosphate. The newly synthesized TiO₂-based composite material was micro/nano-sized, multilayered, and exhibited a bone-like apatite-grown structure. The proposed modification method enabled the feasible design of materials with natural bone-like components on the surface, thereby facilitating effective osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, improved biodegradability was confirmed by electrochemical anti-corrosion analysis. The successfully prepared materials mitigated some issues related to cytotoxicity and anti-angiogenesis, while simultaneously enhancing cellular interactions. The capability to stimulate angiogenesis in HUVECs and osteogenic differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells was demonstrated through in vitro tests. Thus, this work presents a simplified and promising coating strategy using zein on the surface of TiO₂ nanoparticles, followed by optimal bone-like apatite formation, offering potential biomaterials for treating bone defects and traumatic injuries.