In Vitro Odontogenic Differentiation and Mineralisation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Induced by Nano-α-Tricalcium Phosphate/ Silver Nanoparticle Resin Composites for Pulp Capping.

OBJECTIVE

Pulp capping materials must possess biocompatibility, odontogenic characteristics, and promote mineralisation. The combination of nano α-tricalcium phosphate (nano α-TCP) with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) yields these features. The objective of this work was to examine the impact of nano-α-TCP and AgNPs on the odontogenic differentiation and mineralisation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs).

METHODS

Composites of nano α-TCP and AgNPs were produced inside a UDMA/TEGDMA resin matrix, with AgNPs varying from 1% to 10% w/w (weight/weight) The morphology and distribution of nano α-TCP and AgNPs were analysed using scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The viability of hDPSCs was assessed with the metabolic activity (MTT) test at 24 and 72 hours. The capacity for odontogenesis was evaluated by DSPP (dentin sialophosphoprotein) and dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP-1) proteins on days 3, 7, 14, and 21, while mineralisation was analysed using Alizarin Red on days 14 and 21. A two-way ANOVA was conducted, followed by Tukey's test (P < .05).

RESULTS

Scanning electron microscopy -Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) demonstrated a porous matrix with a uniform distribution of calcium phosphate (CaP) and silver (Ag) content, aligning with the intended composition; certain formulations approximated the Ca/P ratio of hydroxyapatite. The viability assay of hDPSCs indicated that all treatment groups exceeded 80% after 24 and 72 hours. DSPP levels reached their zenith on day 3, diminished from days 7 to 14, and subsequently rose again on day 21, whereas DMP-1 levels exhibited no consistent pattern of increase or decrease until day 21, signifying the advancement of differentiation. The Alizarin Red assay indicated a notable rise in mineral deposits between days 14 and 21.

CONCLUSION

Nano α-tricalcium phosphate and AgNPs resin composites demonstrated cytocompatibility, expression of odontogenic markers, and mineralisation-related activity in hDPSCs under in vitro conditions. These findings support the bioactivity of the tested formulations as an experimental proof of concept; however, in vivo and clinical studies are required before any clinical application can be considered.

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