Smart Coatings Integrating Antimicrobial and Tissue-Remodeling Functions for Implant Interfaces

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Infectious Diseases
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Implant-related infections pose a significant challenge in restorative dentistry.
• Titanium (Ti) abutments are susceptible to bacterial colonization and biofilm formation.
• Developing effective antimicrobial and biocompatible coatings is crucial for implant success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antimicrobial performance and biocompatibility of a novel layer-by-layer (LbL) coating on titanium (Ti) surfaces.
• The coating incorporates tetracycline (TC) complexed with anionic β-cyclodextrin (TCβCD) and a pH-responsive poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) film.
• To assess the coating's potential for treating implant-related infections and enhancing peri-implant soft tissue remodeling.

Main Methods:

• A rat subcutaneous implant-related infection model was established using polymicrobial biofilms.
• Contaminated Ti discs with and without the LbL/TCβCD/PMAA coating were implanted and analyzed at 1 and 7 days.
• In vitro fibroblast cultures were used to assess gene expression related to collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix remodeling.

Main Results:

• The LbL/TCβCD/PMAA coating demonstrated sustained antimicrobial activity, achieving >3 log10 reduction in viable bacteria.
• Coated implants showed minimal inflammatory response and enhanced collagen deposition, promoting connective tissue maturation.
• In vitro studies confirmed upregulated collagen-related gene expression, indicating pro-regenerative effects.

Conclusions:

• The multifunctional coating effectively provides sustained antimicrobial activity.
• The coating exhibits immunomodulatory and pro-regenerative properties.
• This technology holds significant potential for treating implant-related infections and improving peri-implant tissue healing.