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TiO 2 nanotubes prepared by electrochemical anodization have received considerable attention in the biomedical field. In this work, different amounts of gold nanoparticles were immobilized onto TiO 2 nanotubes using 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane as coupling agent. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to investigate the surface morphology and composition. Photoluminescence spectra and surface zeta potential were also measured. The obtained results indicate that the surface modified gold nanoparticles can significantly enhance the electron storage capability and reduce the surface zeta potential compared to pristine TiO 2 nanotubes. Moreover, the surface modified gold nanoparticles can stimulate initial adhesion and spreading of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells as well as proliferation, while the osteogenous performance of TiO 2 nanotubes will not be reduced. The gold-modified surface presents moderate antibacterial effect on both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli . It should be noted that the surface modified fewer gold nanoparticles has better antibacterial effect compared to the surface of substantial modification of gold nanoparticles. Our study illustrates a composite surface with favorable cytocompatibility and antibacterial effect and provides a promising candidate for orthopedic and dental implant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]