Ginseng-Derived Exosomes-Loaded Thermosensitive Hydrogel for the Treatment of Periodontitis

Periodontitis represents a persistent inflammatory condition marked by the irreversible destruction of the alveolar bone, eventually leading to tooth loss. The ideal treatment for periodontitis involves three key steps: antibacterial treatment, inflammation control, and periodontal regeneration, ultimately leading to the complete restoration of alveolar bone and the full recovery of periodontal function. However, current periodontitis treatments cannot comprehensively solve these issues. In this study, a ginseng-derived exosomes (GEXs)-loaded injectable hydrogel (GEXs@Gel) was designed. GEXs@Gel was thermosensitive with good fluidity, capable of conforming to the intricate contours of periodontal pockets, while withstanding the persistent wash of gingival crevicular fluid. In vitro studies showed that GEXs and GEXs@Gel can inhibit the growth of periodontal pathogenic bacteria, effectively remove biofilms, promote the polarization of macrophages to the anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotype, and alleviate cellular oxidative stress. In particular, GEXs@Gel had the functions of promoting bone/angiogenesis and regeneration. In vivo studies showed that GEXs@Gel effectively inhibited inflammation, promoted alveolar bone regeneration, and effectively reversed periodontitis. In summary, GEXs@Gel offers a promising strategy for the treatment of periodontitis.