Characterization of a Hydrogel Composite Containing Bioactive Moringa as a Novel Pulp-Capping Material.
Mustafa Tariq Mutar1, Anas F Mahdee1
1Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry Department, College of Dentistry, University of Baghdad, Baghdad 10047, Iraq.
Polymers
|October 16, 2025
Summary
A new hydrogel incorporating bioactive Moringa shows promise for vital pulp therapy. Low concentrations (0.5%) of Moringa enhance antioxidant and antibacterial properties, supporting tissue regeneration as a direct pulp-capping agent.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Hydrogels are hydrophilic, biocompatible polymers utilized in drug delivery across various medical fields.
- Vital pulp therapy requires effective direct pulp-capping materials to promote tissue healing and regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the physical and biological properties of a novel hydrogel composite as a direct pulp-capping agent.
- To evaluate the impact of incorporating bioactive Moringa on hydrogel performance.
Main Methods:
- Hydrogel composite synthesized using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hyaluronic acid (HA), and sodium alginate (SA) with varying Moringa concentrations.
- Physicochemical (FTIR, XRD, SEM, degradation, swelling), mechanical (viscosity, folding endurance, film thickness), and biological (antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxicity) assessments were performed.
Main Results:
- FTIR and XRD confirmed successful Moringa incorporation and partial cross-linking.
- Hydrogels with low Moringa concentrations exhibited integrity, scavenging activity, and homogeneity.
- Moringa-loaded films demonstrated concentration-dependent antioxidant and antibacterial effects, with good cytocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- A 0.5% Moringa concentration in the hydrogel composite shows potential as a novel pulp-capping agent.
- The developed hydrogel supports tissue healing and regeneration through its enhanced biological properties.
