Multifunctional pH-Responsive Microneedles Remodel Immunity and Activate HIF-1α for Alveolar Bone Regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Periodontology

Background:

• Periodontitis is a prevalent inflammatory disease causing alveolar bone loss and tooth loss.
• Current treatments for periodontitis have limitations in drug delivery, immunomodulation, and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional, pH-responsive microneedle system for periodontal regeneration.
• To address limitations of existing treatments by enhancing local drug delivery and therapeutic effects.

Main Methods:

• A dissolvable microneedle system was engineered using deferoxamine (DFO)-loaded magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide (DFO@LDH).
• The DFO@LDH microneedles were designed for controlled release of Mg2+ and DFO in response to pH changes.
• The system was evaluated for its ability to modulate immune responses, promote osteogenesis, and stimulate angiogenesis.

Main Results:

• The DFO@LDH microneedle system demonstrated pH-dependent degradation and controlled release of therapeutic components.
• Magnesium ions modulated immune responses and promoted osteogenesis, while DFO activated angiogenesis by stabilizing HIF-1α.
• The system effectively counteracted inflammation-driven cellular senescence and promoted tissue regeneration in periodontal tissues.

Conclusions:

• The DFO@LDH microneedle system offers a promising therapeutic strategy for periodontal regeneration by targeting immunomodulation, angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and senescence.
• This platform has potential applications beyond periodontitis, including other inflammatory bone defects and chronic wound healing.