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Attaching Biological Probes to Silica Optical Biosensors Using Silane Coupling Agents
Published on: May 1, 2012
Polypeptide-catalyzed biosilicification of dentin surfaces.
A J Goldberg1, M C Advincula, T Komabayashi
1Center for Biomaterials, Department of Reconstructive Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave., Farmington, CT06030-1615, USA. Goldberg@uchc.edu
Journal of Dental Research
|May 2, 2009
Summary
Poly(L-lysine) (PLL) functions as a peptide-catalyst on dentin, enabling in situ silica formation. This demonstrates potential for sealing dentin tubules and improving material-tooth interfaces in dental applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Dental materials
- Biomineralization
Background:
- In situ mineral formation via biocatalysis offers advantages for dental applications like occluding dentin tubules.
- Maintaining catalyst functionality on the dentin surface is crucial for such applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if poly(L-lysine) (PLL), a functional analog of silica-forming catalysts, retains activity on dentin surfaces.
- To assess the potential of PLL for mediating in situ silica formation on dentin.
Main Methods:
- Poly(L-lysine) was applied to dentin discs with a silica precursor (tetramethyl orthosilicate).
- Microscopic analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed.
- Chemical analysis using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was conducted.
Main Results:
- Treated dentin discs showed a partial coating consistent with silica.
- XPS analysis confirmed the presence of silica on the treated discs.
- Negative controls did not exhibit silica formation, indicating PLL's essential role.
Conclusions:
- Poly(L-lysine) retains its catalytic activity on dentin surfaces.
- PLL can mediate in situ silica formation, supporting its use in dental treatments.
- This finding suggests broad potential for peptide-catalysts in preventive and restorative dentistry.
