Cytocompatibility of boron nanoparticle-modified maxillofacial silicone elastomers: an in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Boron nanoparticles (BNPs) are explored for dental biomaterials due to antimicrobial and reinforcing properties.
• Cytocompatibility of BNP-modified maxillofacial silicone elastomers requires further investigation.
• Maxillofacial prostheses require materials with excellent mechanical and biological performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the concentration-dependent effects of boron nanoparticles (BNPs) on the cytocompatibility of two maxillofacial silicone elastomers.
• To assess the influence of BNP incorporation on human dermal fibroblast viability.
• To correlate surface morphology and nanoparticle distribution with biological responses.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of silicone elastomer specimens (A-2000, A-2006) with 0%, 1 wt%, and 3 wt% BNPs.
• Cytocompatibility assessment using MTT assay on human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) exposed to material eluates at 24 and 48 hours.
• Surface morphology and nanoparticle distribution analysis via scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Main Results:

• One wt% BNP groups showed cell viability comparable to controls at 24 hours.
• Three wt% BNP groups exhibited significantly reduced cell viability at 24 hours, with recovery by 48 hours.
• SEM revealed concentration-dependent nanoparticle agglomeration and increased surface roughness at higher BNP concentrations.

Conclusions:

• BNP incorporation affects cytocompatibility in a concentration-dependent manner.
• One wt% BNP preserves cytocompatibility, while 3 wt% causes transient viability reduction, likely due to agglomeration and release.
• Matrix properties significantly influence the biological response to BNPs in maxillofacial silicones.