Sharp nanothorn-equipped ionogel microrobots for targeted periodontitis therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Periodontology

Background:

• Periodontitis is a prevalent inflammatory disease causing progressive tissue destruction and linked to systemic conditions.
• Conventional treatments face challenges due to periodontal barriers like biofilms and crevicular fluid, hindering drug delivery and bacterial eradication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer magnetically actuated microrobots for targeted disruption of periodontal biofilms and enhanced drug delivery.
• To evaluate the efficacy of these microrobots in penetrating mucus barriers, improving retention, and reducing inflammation in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Microrobots were fabricated using antibacterial ionogel microspheres encapsulating curcumin, functionalized with gold nanothorns and asymmetric magnetic deposition.
• Magnetic navigation in viscous media, penetration of a biomimetic mucus analog, and mechanical biofilm disruption were demonstrated.
• Ethanol-responsive curcumin release, free radical scavenging, and modulation of macrophage phenotypes were analyzed. In vivo murine models were used for efficacy evaluation.

Main Results:

• Microrobots exhibited precise magnetic control, enhanced periodontal retention, and effective mechanical biofilm disruption.
• Curcumin release effectively scavenged free radicals and modulated macrophage responses, reducing inflammation.
• In vivo studies showed reduced inflammation, inhibited bone resorption, improved tissue health, and favorable oral microbiota remodeling.

Conclusions:

• Magnetically actuated microrobots with nanothorn functionalization offer a promising approach for targeted periodontitis therapy.
• These microrobots overcome periodontal barriers, enhance drug delivery, and modulate the inflammatory response.
• The technology demonstrates potential for improved treatment outcomes and restoration of oral ecological balance.