Multifunctional 3D-printed stimuli-responsive drug delivery system for periodontitis treatment

Abstract

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease elicited by oral pathogens that can cause severe damages to tooth-supporting tissues. Regenerative procedures using guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane are considered one of the most efficient approaches for periodontal tissue engineering. However, currently available membranes have limitations in terms of bioactivity and potential regeneration. To address such challenges, in this project we aim to develop 3D printed bi-layered quaternized gelatin methacryloyl (QGelMA)-based hydrogel membranes loaded with metal-organic frameworks nanomaterials (nanoMOF) and manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanosheets as a stimuli-responsive drug delivery system for the treatment of periodontitis via GTR. This project will be centered on the development of inks with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and osteogenic properties combined to suitable rheological behavior, mechanical strength as well as printability for generating complex 3D asymmetrical membranes structures with high resolution and printing fidelity. The developed membranes will be characterized in terms of morphology, biodegradability, swelling behavior, mechanical properties, antibacterial activity, the release of therapeutic molecules, and periodontal tissue regeneration ability. The internship at Prof. Dr. Su Ryon Shin's group will allow the candidate to learn new techniques and technologies for the development and integration of advanced biomaterials with tissue engineering as well as microfabrication techniques to create complex functional 3D materials for periodontitis treatment. Additionally, the techniques and methodologies learned by the candidate during the internship period will be employed in his Postdoctoral project upon his return to Brazil. (AU)