Lanthanum-loaded ZIF nanomaterials for caries prevention

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Dental Research

Background:

• Dental caries is a global oral health issue, with fluoride as the primary treatment.
• Overuse of fluoride can lead to adverse health effects like dental fluorosis.
• Lanthanum (La) shows anticaries potential but faces delivery challenges due to toxicity concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate lanthanum-encapsulated zeolitic imidazolate framework nanoparticles (La@ZIF) as a fluoride-free anticaries strategy.
• To assess the controlled release, biocompatibility, and remineralization efficacy of La@ZIF.
• To investigate the *in vivo* safety and anticaries performance of La@ZIF.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of La@ZIF nanoparticles with varying La content (20%, 40%, 60%) via a one-pot method.
• Characterization of nanoparticles, including degradation and acid-neutralizing capacity.
• *In vitro* biocompatibility, enamel remineralization, and surface hardness tests.
• *In vivo* studies in a rat model to assess organ safety and remineralization potential.

Main Results:

• La@ZIF nanoparticles exhibited excellent degradation and acid-neutralizing properties.
• *In vitro* studies confirmed La@ZIF's biocompatibility, promoting enamel remineralization and restoring hardness comparable to fluoride.
• *In vivo* studies showed significant remineralization potential without adverse effects on major organs.

Conclusions:

• La@ZIF nanoparticles represent a promising, safe, and effective fluoride-free strategy for combating dental caries.
• Controlled lanthanum delivery via ZIF encapsulation mitigates toxicity concerns.
• This approach offers a novel direction for developing advanced anticaries materials.