Synthesis and evaluation of biomaterials associated with extracellular matrix proteins for the pulp tissue regeneration

Abstract

The aim of this study is to develop experimental nanofibrous scaffolds and hydrogel containing extracellular matrix proteins capable of participating effectively of the regenerative process of pulp tissue through biostimulation of human Stem Cells from Apical Papilla (SCAPs). In study 1, the optimum concentration of extracellular matrix proteins (fibronectin, laminin and collagen I) that present bioactivity on SCAPs cells will be determined according to the following parameters: cell viability and proliferation; cell adhesion and spread; cell migration; specific genes expression; and collagen synthesis. In study 2, different formulations of scaffolds based on poly([-caprolactone) with parallel and random arrangement of the nanofibers will be assessed, evaluating the surface topography of the scaffolds, their resistance to degradation as well as the potential to induce cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation. After selecting the best scaffold formulation with parallel and random arrangement of nanofibers, its biological effect associated with extracellular matrix proteins, based on the results of the study 1, will be evaluated. In study 3, different formulations of a hydrogel based on gelatin will be tested, evaluating their handling characteristics, as well as, their potential to induce cell adhesion, spreading and proliferation. After selecting the best hidrogel formulation, its biological activity associated with extracellular matrix proteins, based on the results of study 1, will be evaluated. Finally, in study 4 the formulated biomaterials (scaffold of nanofibres and hydrogel) will be assessed using an innovative in vitro model of pulp regeneration, in which roots obtained from human teeth will individually adapted to perfusion artificial pulp chambers, under dynamic intrapulpal pressure. Histological and immunohistochemical analyzes will be carried out in order to determine the tissue morphology and markers expression of collagen synthesis and odontogenic differentiation along the root canal. (AU)