Biocompatibility in vitro tests of Zinalco (TM)

In this study, cultures of human lymphocytes were exposed for 48 h to aqueo us suspensions of Zinalco(TM), with different times of corrosion, to test t he biocompatibility of this alloy and support its use in medical implants. The results show that the Zinalco(TM) concentrations assessed affect the mi totic index (MI) and some also increase the length of DNA migration measure d in the comet assay in a significant manner; none of them showed clastogen ic nor aneugenic effects. The authors conclude that Zinalco(TM) may be cons idered as an alternative biomaterial and suggest its use for short-term imp lants. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.