Development of a novel pH-responsive anti-caries nanocomposite hydrogel

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Dental caries is a prevalent oral disease requiring effective management strategies.
• Current treatments can be invasive and lack targeted delivery.
• Developing advanced biomaterials for caries prevention is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a pH-responsive nanocomposite hydrogel (NCH) for anti-caries applications.
• The NCH was designed to possess antibacterial and mineralizing properties.
• Investigate the NCH's performance under simulated oral conditions.

Main Methods:

• The NCH was synthesized using methacrylated hyaluronic acid, silk fibroin, chitosan, nano-hydroxyapatite, nano-silver, and nano-zinc oxide.
• Comprehensive characterization included SEM, UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, and XPS.
• Cytotoxicity, ion release kinetics, antibacterial efficacy, and anti-demineralization effects were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of the NCH was confirmed with good biocompatibility (IC50 > 1000 ppm for HGF-1 and SHED).
• Significant pH-dependent release of Ca, Ag, and Zn ions was observed, with higher release at acidic pH (4.5).
• The NCH demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and reduced dentine demineralization by over 60%.

Conclusions:

• The developed NCH is biocompatible and exhibits pH-triggered ion release.
• It possesses significant antibacterial properties against S. mutans.
• The NCH effectively protects against dentine demineralization, showing potential as an anti-caries biomaterial.