Large bone defects resulting from trauma, tumor resection, infection, or degenerative diseases pose a major clinical challenge in orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine. Despite advances in biomaterials and surgical techniques, successful outcomes are often compromised by poor vascularization, limited osteoinduction, and donor-site morbidity associated with autografts or allografts. However, conventional delivery systems suffer from burst release, rapid clearance, off-target effects, and supraphysiologic dosing, which can lead to undesirable complications such as ectopic ossification and inflammation, with some reports raising concerns about the long-term tumorigenic risk. Heparin, a naturally highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan structurally related to heparan sulfate, has emerged as a particularly attractive candidate for affinity-based biomaterial systems. It naturally binds over 300 growth factors, including bone morphogenetic proteins. By protecting these proteins from enzymatic degradation, enhancing their bioavailability, and mediating receptor clustering, heparin provides both biochemical stability and biofunctional modulation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of heparin-based delivery strategies in bone tissue engineering. We begin by describing the biological functions of heparin in modulating growth factor activity. We then discuss in detail the different heparin-based biomaterials designed to sustain the release of growth factors for bone tissue engineering, including the heparin-polycation coacervate system; heparin-based supramolecules; and heparin-based hydrogels, nanoparticles, and microspheres for sustained release of bone morphogenic proteins and other growth factors for bone tissue engineering. Finally, we assess the clinical and translational relevance of heparin-based systems, identify key challenges, and outline future perspectives, highlighting the potential of these biomaterials for providing safer and more effective therapies for bone regeneration.
Titanium and its alloys are used in dental and orthopedic implants. However, long-term stability remains a clinical challenge. To overcome this limitation, surface modification has been investigated to improve surface properties. Our previous study demonstrated that the immobilization of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) on the titanium surface promotes osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation in vitro. The current study demonstrated the first in vivo evaluation of SLPI as a bioactive coating for medical implants. Grade 5 titanium screws were coated with 10 µg/mL of recombinant human SLPI (rhSLPI) for 24 h via simple physical adsorption, and the results were preliminarily validated via FE-SEM and ELISA. These SLPI-coated titanium screws (TiSs) were then placed in the tibia of Sprague-Dawley rats for 4 and 8 weeks. The hematological and biochemical parameters (BUN, Creatinine, AST, and Troponin I) demonstrated no acute systemic alterations within the 8-week period across all groups. Moreover, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histological analysis revealed significantly higher bone volume fraction (%BV/TV) at 4 weeks compared to uncoated controls (20.64% ± 2.452% vs. 11.73% ± 0.524%). Finally, the biomechanical stability of implants, assessed using the removal torque test, showed that TiSs showed higher strength compared to Ti at both 4 and 8 weeks. In conclusion, this study represents a novel approach to transitioning rhSLPI-coated titanium evaluation from in vitro models to an in vivo rat model. rhSLPI surface functionalization enhances early-stage osseointegration and improves implant mechanical stability without acute hematological and biochemical alterations. These proof-of-concept findings suggest the potential of SLPI as a bioactive coating strategy.
The key challenge in restoring neural function after spinal cord injury stems from a vicious cycle triggered by the collapse of the bioelectrical microenvironment at the injury site: an 'electrical silence-neuronal degeneration-glial proliferation' cascade that conventional therapies fail to reverse. This review systematically summarizes the pathological mechanisms of electrical microenvironment imbalance and its critical role in neural regeneration. Furthermore, current intervention strategies based on biomaterials are outlined: evolving from passive reconstruction of electrical pathways using conductive materials to proactive regulation of local electric fields through exogenous electrical stimulation, which activates key signaling pathways, such as voltage-gated calcium channels, and thereby promotes axonal regeneration, stem cell differentiation, and immune modulation. Although existing strategies face challenges in precision and biocompatibility, this review integrates multidisciplinary perspectives from neuroscience and biomaterials to establish a theoretical framework for designing precise, biocompatible electrically modulating biomaterials. Ultimately, we aim to advance spinal cord injury treatment from local electrical environment restoration toward a paradigm shift toward functional neural circuit reconstruction.
Bone defects remain a significant challenge in bone tissue engineering, driving an urgent need for advanced materials with enhanced therapeutic properties. Additive manufacturing highlights a unique capacity for customization, which enables the precise realization of complex and personalized composite scaffolds. This study innovatively integrates the superior mechanical properties of polycaprolactone (PCL) with the antibacterial characteristics of S53P4 bioactive glass. Utilizing thermal melt extrusion processing and fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology, we fabricated gradient-structured S53P4@PCL composite three-dimensional porous scaffolds with varying doping ratios (5 wt%, 10 wt%, 20 wt%). To further improve the antibacterial efficacy of the scaffold, exosomes (EXO) derived from grouper eggs were functionalized with bacteria-targeting aptamers (APTs), a type of functional DNA capable of binding to bacterial peptidoglycan, and EXO-APT-20%S53P4@PCL was fabricated. The resulting EXO-APT-20%S53P4@PCL scaffold was able to facilitate the targeted capture and subsequent eradication of bacteria. This study pioneers the synergistic integration of aptamer-modified exosomes into 3D composite scaffolds. Our analysis confirmed that the incorporation of APTs enabled targeted bacterial capture, and antibacterial EXO further enhanced the overall bacterial killing capability of the S53P4@PCL scaffolds. The fabrication of porous S53P4@PCL scaffolds through an innovative composite-molding strategy, combined with EXO-APT functionalization, establishes a new paradigm for customized bone repair.
Advances in dental material science over recent decades have significantly improved the mechanical, physical, esthetic, and adhesive properties of restorative systems. As clinical performance and durability have reached high standards, research has progressively shifted from purely mechanical replacement toward the development of bioactive materials capable of interacting beneficially with biological tissues. Rather than functioning solely as passive restoratives, contemporary materials are increasingly designed to contribute to disease prevention and tissue repair. Bioactive functionality encompasses both bioprotective and biopromotive effects, including antimicrobial activity, reinforcement of the dental substrate, promotion of remineralization, modulation of inflammatory responses, and stimulation of regenerative pathways. In this context, the surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) particle has emerged as a multifunctional bioactive technology. Its unique three-layer structure enables sustained release of multiple ions, fluoride, strontium, boron, sodium, silicate, and aluminum, associated with mineralization, biofilm inhibition, inflammatory regulation, and activation of cellular signaling pathways. An integrative review was conducted through a literature search in PubMed, SciELO and Scopus using the descriptors "Surface-reaction-type prereacted glass ionomer" and "S-PRG." Experimental studies evaluating antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, remineralizing, cellular, or regenerative effects of S-PRG-containing materials were considered eligible. A total of 49 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed through descriptive synthesis. The available evidence indicates that the biological activity of S-PRG-containing materials extends beyond caries prevention, including modulation of inflammatory responses, enhancement of mineralization processes, and stimulation of cellular pathways related to tissue repair. These findings highlight the potential of S-PRG technology as a promising strategy for the development of restorative materials with regenerative and preventive properties.
The accuracy of static computer-aided implant surgery (s-CAIS) is fundamental for predictable clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different guide-support modalities on the linear and angular accuracy of implant placement. In this retrospective clinical investigation conducted at a single specialty hospital, a total of 180 implants were analyzed, divided into three equal groups (n = 60) based on the guide support type: tooth-supported, bone-supported, and mucosa-supported. Accuracy was assessed by superimposing preoperative virtual plans with postoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, measuring linear deviations at the neck and apex of the implant, as well as angular discrepancies. The type of guide support was found to be a significant factor associated with surgical accuracy (p < 0.001). Tooth-supported guides demonstrated the highest level of accuracy, with a mean angular deviation of 1.81° ± 0.45° and linear deviations at the neck and apex of 0.59 ± 0.18 mm and 0.73 ± 0.19 mm, respectively. These were followed by bone-supported guides (2.14° ± 0.48°; 1.04 ± 0.26 mm; 1.61 ± 0.31 mm), while mucosa-supported guides exhibited the greatest deviations (2.95° ± 0.60°; 1.47 ± 0.29 mm; 1.87 ± 0.37 mm). Significant intergroup differences and large effect sizes were observed, particularly regarding angular and horizontal discrepancies. These findings demonstrate a distinct gradient of accuracy based on guide support, establishing tooth-supported guides as the most accurate, followed by bone-supported and, lastly, mucosa-supported guides. While all modalities are clinically applicable, the use of mucosa-supported guides necessitates increased safety margins to account for the increased risk of linear and angular discrepancies inherent to mucosal tissue displacement.
Atrophy of the alveolar ridge in the posterior maxilla often requires sinus floor elevation prior to implant placement. Photobiomodulation using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been suggested as a supportive approach for bone healing, although data based on histological evaluation are still limited. This study presents histological and radiological secondary outcomes of a randomized clinical trial on bone regeneration after lateral window sinus augmentation. Twenty patients were allocated according to grafting material (allogeneic or xenogeneic) and the use of adjunctive LLLT. After 6 months, bone core biopsies were obtained at the time of implant placement and processed for histological analysis. Radiological bone gain was assessed using CBCT. Bone gain was achieved in all groups, allowing implant placement in every case. Mean bone gain reached 7.53 ± 3.32 mm in LLLT-treated sites and 7.02 ± 2.00 mm in controls, with no statistically significant differences. Histological analysis confirmed trabecular bone formation across all groups. Mild inflammatory cell infiltrates were observed more frequently in LLLT-treated sites (p = 0.029), although this finding was not associated with impaired tissue organization or compromised healing. Both allogeneic and xenogeneic grafts showed good biocompatibility and supported effective bone regeneration after sinus augmentation. The addition of photobiomodulation did not demonstrate statistically significant clinical or radiological benefits within this exploratory cohort, but it may be associated with subtle differences in tissue remodeling.
Although teixobactin, a promising cyclic undecadepsipeptide, exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria due to its novel mode of action and low potential for resistance, its clinical application is limited by two key shortcomings: ineffectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria and poor penetration of the protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) in biofilms. This renders it unsuitable for targeting the polymicrobial biofilms, which are the cause of periodontitis and peri-implantitis. We designed a modified teixobactin analog by integrating rhamnolipid, Ag@Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and L-Chg10-teixobactin to obtain a novel magnetic nanoparticle (MNP). The MNP demonstrates the ability to simultaneously degrade EPS, penetrate biofilm structures, and eliminate both G+ and G- pathogens under a rotating magnetic field (RMF). Rhamnolipid grafting degraded 52.5% of biofilm EPS. MNPs showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with minimal inhibitory concentrations from 100 to 200 µg/mL. Combined with RMF, biofilm eradication rates reached 97.0% (E. faecalis), 97.7% (S. gordonii), 88.4% (P. gingivalis), and 74.2% (F. nucleatum). The biofilm thickness was reduced from 19.4 ± 2.9 µm to 7.4 ± 1.0 µm, and the biofilm biomass was reduced by 68.5%. This combined strategy integrates enzymatic EPS degradation, magneto-mechanical disruption, and dual antimicrobial action, offering a promising topical therapy for periodontitis and peri-implantitis.
Healthcare activities contribute significantly to climate change and environmental pollution. The demand for bone grafting is increasing, and the biological properties of bone substitute materials are critically important. A methodology aimed at preserving BMPs may offer an opportunity to improve the biological properties of donor cadaver-derived bone grafts. The aim of this study was to conduct a life cycle assessment of the BMP-preserving approach used in allograft production in order to enhance the environmental sustainability of bone grafting. Following primary data collection at the West Hungarian Regional Tissue Bank, environmental impacts were assessed using the OpenLCA software and the ReCiPe v1.03 (2016) midpoint and endpoint impact categories. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted under six alternative scenarios to evaluate which changes would have the greatest beneficial effect on environmental impacts. The greatest environmental impacts of allograft production were observed in the categories of material resources: metals and minerals, terrestrial ecotoxicity, and climate change. The climate change impact was 66.759 kg CO2-eq. The environmental impacts of the production process also had a significant influence on human health, with a total DALY value of 6.58 h. The impacts were primarily driven by electricity consumption and the chemicals used; however, in several impact categories, waste management also contributed substantially. Transitioning to more sustainable energy sources (e.g., wind power) would substantially improve the environmental performance of allograft production. Further research is needed to identify more sustainable alternatives for the chemical agents used during processing.
The research described in this article is a continuation of a series of studies on biocompatible materials, focused on finding the optimal alloy composition and heat treatment regimes. The use of materials with a low Young's modulus ensures the long-term safety of the implant by reducing the stress shielding effect, which causes bone resorption. This work investigates the effect of alloying with niobium in the range of (8-10) at. % on the Ti-38Zr alloy, specifically its structure, mechanical properties, Young's modulus, and superelasticity. In this study, plates of the Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb (at. %) alloy were investigated after quenching and subsequent annealing. In Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb alloys, quenching from 600 °C fixes the β-phase of Ti. In alloys with (8-9)Nb, this is a metastable β-phase, as evidenced by its superelastic behavior under cyclic tension. Annealing at 400 °C leads to a clear decomposition of the quenched high-temperature β-phase in Ti-38Zr-(8-9)Nb alloys into β- and α'-phases. Based on the mechanical test results, it can be inferred that the precipitation of the brittle ω-phase and the α'-phase occur concurrently, since annealing at 400 °C causes a pronounced embrittlement of the Ti-38Zr-(8-9)Nb alloys (with elongation dropping from ~15% to 0.7-2.5%, respectively) alongside a substantial increase in strength (from 500 MPa to 1010 MPa). For the Ti-38Zr-10Nb alloy, the ductility also declines but remains within acceptable limits (from ~14% to ~10%), while the strength rises from 520 MPa to 630 MPa. The Young's modulus of the Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb alloy after quenching is ~80 GPa. After annealing, it increases to 95 GPa for alloys with (8-9)Nb, while for 10Nb it remains at approximately 80 GPa.
Hemostatic biomaterial agents are widely used during surgery and trauma care to control bleeding, yet their effects on wound healing remain incompletely understood. This study evaluated the impact of oxidized non-regenerated cellulose (ONRC), oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC), and a gelatin-based hemostat (GELA) on wound healing at 14 and 30 days in a mouse model. Full-thickness wounds were created in C57BL/6J mice (n = 192) and compared to sham controls. Tissue samples were analyzed histologically, supported by immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 and α-SMA and qPCR for VEGF, TGF-β, and FGF-2. Histology demonstrated preserved tissue architecture across groups with progressive resorption of cellulose-based materials, whereas GELA showed localized fibrous structures and enhanced extracellular matrix formation. At day 14, no significant differences were observed in proliferation, contraction, VEGF, or FGF-2 expression; however, TGF-β was significantly reduced in the ORC group. By day 30, GELA significantly increased epidermal proliferation, while contraction markers were elevated in both GELA and ORC. VEGF expression was reduced in GELA and ORC, whereas ONRC showed increased TGF-β expression. FGF-2 remained unchanged across groups. All investigated hemostatic materials were well tolerated during the early postoperative phase (up to day 14), indicating short-term biocompatibility within the scope of this model. In contrast, material-specific differences in cellular activity and growth factor expression became apparent during the later remodeling phase (day 30). These findings suggest differential effects on cellular and molecular aspects of tissue remodeling; however, no conclusions can be drawn regarding overall healing quality or clinical safety, as no quantitative macroscopic or functional outcome measures were assessed.
3D printing of biomaterials entrapped with functional cells has emerged as a promising technique for cell-based therapy. Development of biomaterial composite that enables 3D bioprinting while providing structural support and nutrient diffusion for cell survival and function is a challenge. In this study, pancreatic cell-seeded scaffolds were 3D bioprinted using composites made of sodium alginate, sodium hyaluronate, and polyethylene glycol diacrylate to provide biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and structural stability. The beta cell population within the pancreatic cells isolated from Sprague Dawley rats was found to be 66 ± 12%. The cell suspension was evaluated for glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), where incubation with 22.2 mmol/L glucose resulted in the production of 1272 ± 113 µIU/mL and 405 ± 115 µIU/mL insulin into the cell pellet and cell supernatant, respectively. The two photon confocal microscope showed that rhodamine B uptake into the 3D printed cell scaffold significantly (P < 0.05) increased with time. The cell viability (MTT) assay showed pancreatic cell viability of 68.2 ± 3.8%, and 69.2 ± 6.2% after 21 and 28 days, respectively. The live dead assay showed pancreatic cell viability of 51.5 ± 11.9%, and 47.4 ± 3.8% after 21 and 28 days, respectively. The cell-entrapped scaffolds were implanted subcutaneously in diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the insulin levels and a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the plasma glucose levels when compared to sham control. The implant was recovered on day 28 and found no signs of infection and capsule formation at the site of implantation. Histological examination revealed no signs of foreign body response, indicating that the implant was biocompatible. Taken together, 3D printed biocomposite material with pancreatic cells can be developed for long-acting diabetes control.
Mineral powder-based bone grafts exhibit excellent osteoconductivity; however, their clinical efficacy is often compromised by insufficient early-stage tissue ingrowth, leading to particle aggregation and pocket formation within the defect site during the initial healing phase. Here, we report a cotton-type nanofiber-guided mineral graft designed to overcome this early integration failure by creating fibrous pathways for tissue ingress. Cotton-type polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers were fabricated via electrospinning using a pin-based collector engineered to induce strong inter-fiber repulsion, resulting in a highly expanded, three-dimensional cottony architecture. Tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP) and α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) mineral particles were subsequently deposited onto the surface of the cottony nanofibers, forming a fibrous-mineral hybrid graft (c-NF@T/α-TCP) in which the nanofibers act as a transient, functionally defined tissue-guiding framework during the early healing phase. The cottony nanofiber network effectively prevented mineral particle aggregation and generated continuous pathways within the graft, facilitating early tissue infiltration and vascular ingress during the first week after implantation. In vivo evaluation in a bone defect model demonstrated that c-NF@T/α-TCP significantly reduced tissue pocket formation at early time points and promoted subsequent bone regeneration compared to mineral powder-only grafts. This study highlights the critical importance of early-stage structural guidance in mineral-based bone grafts and introduces cotton-type nanofiber-guided pathway engineering as a simple yet effective strategy to unlock the regenerative potential of conventional inorganic bone substitutes.
Chitosan (CS) is a cationic linear polysaccharide rich in functional groups (-OH and -NH2) that enable diverse biochemical interactions, making it a promising candidate for the electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA), uric acid (UA), and ascorbic acid (AA). However, its poor electrical conductivity and limited thermal stability restrict its standalone performance, thus requiring the formation of composites with other materials. In this study, we report the synthesis of a chitosan/Fe3O4/graphene nanoplatelet (CS@Fe3O4/GNP) nanocomposite for the highly sensitive and selective electrochemical detection of DA, UA, and AA. The nanocomposite integrates the superior conductivity and high surface area of GNP, the electrocatalytic activity of Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and the biocompatibility and adhesive nature of chitosan. The CS@Fe3O4/GNP composite with various CS concentration (0.0625, 0.125, and 0.25%) was synthesized via a facile in-situ co-precipitation method. Electrochemical studies demonstrated that the 0.25% CS@Fe3O4/GNP-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) exhibited excellent detection performance toward DA, UA, and AA, with limits of detection (LOD) of 28.37 nM (range 30-488 nM), 566.27 nM (range 0.98-15.6 μM), and 26.54 μM (range 31.25-500 μM), respectively. The sensor also achieved recovery rates of 87.83-92.68% (DA), 82.41-91.61% (UA), and 88.83-95.04% (AA) in human blood serum samples.
The reconstruction of complex orbitomaxillary defects requires biomaterials that can simultaneously provide structural stability, biocompatibility, and accurate restoration of facial volume and contour. While rigid polymers such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK) offer reliable mechanical support, they do not adequately replicate the viscoelastic behavior of soft tissues. This report presents a translational revision case employing a personalized hybrid biomaterial approach that combines a 3D-printed PEEK implant for structural orbital floor support with a patient-specific polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) implant for malar volumetric augmentation. Reconstruction was planned using CT segmentation and contralateral mirroring. Patient-specific implants were subsequently designed using CAD/CAM techniques, combining a rigid PEEK implant for structural orbital support with a flexible PDMS implant for malar volumetric augmentation with complementary mechanical properties. Revision surgery included the removal of inadequately positioned titanium hardware, the release of incarcerated extraocular muscles, and the restoration of orbital anatomy and facial symmetry. Postoperative imaging demonstrated stable implant positioning and sustained orbitomaxillary stability. Despite successful anatomical reconstruction, residual functional sequelae, including strabismus related to the severity of the initial orbital trauma, persisted and were addressed separately in a staged manner, resulting in satisfactory ocular alignment and resolution of diplopia in primary gaze. This case underscores the complementary functional roles of rigid and elastic polymers and highlights the translational potential of PDMS as a permanent, patient-specific implant material for volumetric and contour restoration in craniofacial reconstruction.
The newly established Standardized Tool for the Assessment of Bruxism (STAB) and the bruxism screener (BruxScreen) offer thorough, methodical, and readily available instruments for the evaluation and screening of bruxism in clinical settings and research endeavors. The Chinese version provided is a translation of the original English text. The Chinese version of the STAB/BruxScreen was developed in accordance with the 12-step guideline for translation and cultural adaptation established by the expert group. The translation team consisted of 13 members: 4 study coordinators, 2 forward translators, 2 rear translators, and 5 expert panelists. Simultaneously, the Chinese iteration of the STAB and BruxScreen underwent pilot testing to assess its comprehensibility and practicality. Pilot testing comprised 60 participants for the STAB (20 patients, 20 dental students, 20 dentists) and 40 independent volunteers for the BruxScreen (20 patients, 10 students, 10 dentists). The STAB completion time averaged 17.8 minutes for patients (self-report) and 11.4 minutes and 14.3 minutes for dentists and dental students (examination), respectively. The BruxScreen-Q (questionnaire) completion time averaged 1.6 minutes, and the BruxScreen-C (clinical examination) duration averaged 1.8 minutes per patient. High comprehensibility was achieved, with 95.5% of the STAB items and 100% of the BruxScreen items requiring no clarification. All 20 dentists (100%) endorsed both tools as clinically feasible. The test-retest and inter-examiner reliability of the BruxScreen showed excellent agreement (Kappa > 0.8, p < 0.001). The Chinese versions demonstrate satisfactory preliminary comprehensibility and feasibility; the BruxScreen shows excellent reliability. Comprehensive validation in larger samples is required before these tools can be applied in clinical practice or large-scale screening.
Tissue engineering integrates concepts from medicine, biology, and engineering to create living constructs capable of repairing, replacing, or supporting damaged tissues. This multidisciplinary field relies on the interplay between biomaterials, cellular sources, and bioactive signaling to achieve functional tissue regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in scaffold design, highlighting natural, synthetic, and hybrid materials, as well as innovative fabrication techniques such as electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and smart biomaterials. It discusses the role of stem cells and growth factors in directing regeneration and examines a wide range of clinical applications, including skin regeneration, cartilage repair, bone tissue engineering, dental and periodontal regeneration, nerve repair, cardiac tissue engineering, liver tissue models, and ophthalmic applications. Current challenges, such as immune responses, limited vascularization, scalability, and regulatory barriers, are addressed alongside emerging strategies aimed at improving clinical translation. By integrating diverse tissue types and engineering approaches within a unified framework, this review offers a broad yet detailed perspective on the current state and future directions of regenerative medicine.
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is widely used in pediatric dentistry for caries arrest; however, concerns exist regarding its cytotoxicity. Green-synthesized nano-silver fluoride (NSF) is a potential alternative to SDF, offering antimicrobial efficacy with improved biocompatibility. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro safety profile of green-synthesized NSF with 5% (w/v) fluoride using Camellia sinensis extract and to compare it with 38% SDF + potassium iodide (KI) formulation in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Eluates of NSF and SDF+KI were tested at serial concentrations of 5%, 1%, 0.1%, 0.01% and 0.005%. Cell viability was assessed after 24, 48, and 72 h using the MTT assay. Additionally, the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in HGFs was detected through fluorescence microscopy. Exposure to 5% SDF+KI resulted in almost complete loss of cell viability at all time points, whereas NSF demonstrated significantly higher viability under the same conditions. Lower concentrations of both materials maintained acceptable biocompatibility. ROS analysis revealed increased oxidative stress in response to 5% SDF+KI, while NSF induced significantly lower ROS levels. NSF exhibited superior biocompatibility compared to SDF+KI, supporting its potential as a safer silver-based material for caries management. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to confirm its clinical safety profile.
Numerous chemical and physical surface decontamination methods are used in clinical practice for implant surface decontamination, which constitutes the most critical step in the management of peri-implantitis. The aim of this study was to compare, in vitro, the efficacy of the electrolytic cleaning device GalvoSurge (GalvoSurge, GalvoSurge Dental AG, Widnau, Switzerland) with that of an air-abrasive AIRFLOW unit (AIRFLOW, Master PiezonVR, EMS Electro Medical Systems, Herrliberg, Switzerland). Thirty-two SLA-surfaced dental implants were allocated to two groups (n = 16) and contaminated with permanent ink, after which they were placed into jaw models representing two different defect configurations. After treatment, implants were photographed and, using ImageJ, the residual stain area/percentage within a 4 mm region apical to the implant neck was calculated. Surface topography was further evaluated by SEM and EDS. In the two-way analysis of variance, the effect of the decontamination method was statistically significant. The GalvoSurge group exhibited a lower residual stain percentage than AIRFLOW (overall 28.47 ± 10.13 vs. 37.14 ± 9.60; p = 0.019). This difference was independent of defect type (p > 0.05). These findings indicate that electrochemical cleaning via galvanic current may be more effective, under in vitro conditions, for stain removal and surface decontamination; however, they also demonstrate that residual contamination could not be completely eliminated irrespective of the method.
An eco-friendly green synthesis approach was employed to produce copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using a polyherbal extract derived from two medicinally important plant species, Hygrophila auriculata (Schumach.) Heine and Leucas aspera (Willd.) Link. The plant extracts were initially subjected to phytochemical screening to identify bioactive constituents potentially involved in nanoparticle synthesis. The synthesized CuNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (FESEM-EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). UV-visible spectroscopy revealed a characteristic absorption peak at 233.6 nm. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of functional groups associated with nanoparticle reduction and stabilization, whereas FESEM imaging showed predominantly spherical particles with sizes ranging 63-68 nm. Elemental composition was confirmed using EDAX analysis. XRD analysis demonstrated polycrystalline nature of the CuNPs, with an average crystallite size of 11.5 nm. GC-MS analysis and phytochemical screening further confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds, whereas TLC analysis revealed differences in mobility between the plant extract and synthesized CuNPs. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized CuNPs was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against clinically relevant bacterial strains, including those of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The polyherbal-derived CuNPs produced larger inhibition zones than the individual plant extracts, particularly against multidrug-resistant pathogens such as P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Additionally, the nanoparticles exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay at concentrations ranging 10-50 mg/mL, with radical scavenging activity increasing from 29.9% to 76.5% and a corresponding decrease in absorbance from 0.698 to 0.234 (p < 0.05). Cytotoxic evaluation in HepG2 cells after 48 h of exposure demonstrated dose-dependent morphological changes and reduced cell viability. These findings suggest that polyherbal-derived CuNPs possess antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties with potential relevance for biomedical applications.