Strontium-loaded hydrogel scaffolds to promote gingival fibroblast function.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Implantology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Effective peri-implant tissue attachment is crucial for dental implant success.
• Gingival fibroblasts are key cells for wound repair and connective tissue development around implants.
• Strontium has shown potential in promoting fibroblast metabolism and adhesion in previous studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a strontium-loaded alginate hydrogel scaffold for personalized peri-implant application.
• To evaluate the efficacy of strontium release from the scaffold in promoting fibroblast viability and migration.
• To assess the biocompatibility and functionality of the scaffold for improving mucosal healing.

Main Methods:

• Development of a customizable strontium-loaded alginate hydrogel scaffold.
• In vitro assessment of strontium ion release from the hydrogel.
• Evaluation of fibroblast viability and migration in response to scaffold elution.
• Comparison with strontium citrate solution for biological activity.

Main Results:

• The strontium-loaded alginate hydrogel effectively released biologically active strontium ions.
• Strontium release promoted fibroblast viability and migration in vitro.
• The scaffold demonstrated comparable biological activity to strontium citrate solution.
• The device showed good biocompatibility and functionality.

Conclusions:

• The novel strontium-loaded alginate scaffold facilitates local delivery of strontium for enhanced peri-implant healing.
• This approach shows significant potential for improving soft-tissue seal formation and clinical outcomes in dental implantology.
• The personalized scaffold design offers a versatile solution for various implant transmucosal collar configurations.