Amorphous calcium phosphate-based bioactive polymeric composites for mineralized tissue regeneration

Abstract

Amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), a postulated precursor in the formation of biological hydroxyapatite, has been evaluated as a filler phase in bioactive polymeric composites that utilize dental monomers to form the matrix phase on polymerization. In addition to excellent biocompatibility, these composites provided sustained release of calcium and phosphate ions into simulated saliva milieus. In an effort to enhance the physicochemical and mechanical properties and extend the utility of remineralizing ACP composites to a greater variety of dental applications, we have focused on: a) hybridizing ACP by introducing silica and/or zirconia, b) assessing the efficacy of potential coupling agents, c) investigating the effects of chemical structure and compositional variation of the resin matrices on the mechanical strength and ion-releasing properties of the composites, and d) improving the intrinsic adhesiveness of composites by using bifunctional monomers with an affinity for tooth structure in resin formulations. Si- and Zr-modified ACPs along with several monomer systems are found useful in formulating composites with improved mechanical and remineralizing properties. Structure-property studies have proven helpful in advancing our understanding of the remineralizing behavior of these bioactive composites. It is expected that this knowledge base will direct future research and lead to clinically valuable products, especially therapeutic materials appropriate for the healing or even regeneration of defective teeth and bone structures.

Demineralization–remineralization dynamics in teeth and bone

“…Skrtic et al [153][154][155] has introduced composite materials containing ACP, which release significant amount of calcium and phosphate ions. It was demonstrated that the remineralizing potential of ACP was enhanced through its hybridization with silicon or zirconium elements.…”

Structure and Properties of Nanocrystalline Chitosan

“…Changes in chemical and biological properties depend on the nature of the side group. Furthermore, the characteristics of chitosan, such as cationic, hemostatic and insoluble at high pH, can be completely reversed, which can make the anionic watersoluble molecule and also presenting anticoagulants properties [15][16][17][18][19][20].…”

Airbrushed Composite Polymer Zr-ACP Nanofiber Scaffolds with Improved Cell Penetration for Bone Tissue Regeneration

“…[27][28][29] In addition, recent studies have shown that poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres coated with zirconium-modified amorphous calcium phosphate (Zr-ACP) promoted preosteoblast cell attachment and supported cell differentiation. 28,30 Although electrospinning provides fine control over nanofiber synthesis, there are some limitations to applications in tissue engineering such as the inability to deposit fibers without an electric field, slow deposition rates, complex synthesis setups, and poor cell penetration within a fibrous network. 13,31 As shown in this and our earlier studies, nanofiber airbrushing provides a solution to many of these limitations.…”