Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 24, 2025

08:26
Development of Amelogenin-chitosan Hydrogel for In Vitro Enamel Regrowth with a Dense Interface
Published on: July 10, 2014
15.4K
Chlorhexidine preserves the hybrid layer in vitro after 10-years aging
Lorenzo Breschi1, Tatjana Maravic1, Allegra Comba1
1Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via San Vitale 59, 40125 Bologna, Italy.
Summary
Chlorhexidine (CHX) primer effectively inhibited dentinal enzymes and preserved the hybrid layer (HL) for 10 years. This CHX-containing primer remained in the HL, maintaining its protective effect against degradation.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Enzyme Inhibition
Background:
- The hybrid layer (HL) is crucial for dental adhesive restorations.
- Dentin matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) can degrade the HL over time.
- Chlorhexidine (CHX) is known for its antimicrobial and potential MMP-inhibitory properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of a chlorhexidine (CHX)-containing primer in inhibiting dentinal enzymes.
- To assess the preservation of the hybrid layer (HL) after 10 years of aging.
- To determine if CHX remains within the HL over time.
Main Methods:
- Extracted molars were treated with a bonding agent with or without 0.2% CHX primer.
- Specimens were aged in artificial saliva for 10 years at 37°C.
- In situ zymography, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and micro-Raman spectroscopy were used to analyze enzymatic activity, HL integrity, and CHX presence.
Main Results:
- CHX pretreatment significantly reduced enzymatic activity within the HL, with no significant change after 10 years.
- TEM revealed 95% intact HL in the CHX group versus 98% degradation in the control group.
- Micro-Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of CHX in the HL after 10 years.
Conclusions:
- Chlorhexidine (CHX) remains effective in inhibiting dentinal enzymes and preserving the hybrid layer (HL) for at least 10 years.
- The sustained presence and inhibitory effect of CHX within the HL contribute to its long-term preservation.

