A new polymer membrane for the treatment of periodontal disease

UCLA researchers have developed methods using a new polymer membrane for potentially more effective treatment of periodontal disease.

The research could provide an effective and reliable treatment against periodontal diseases, which promotes the regeneration of gum and bone tissues with biological and mechanical characteristics, which can also be adjusted according to the patient's treatment needs.

Periodontal disease

Periodontitis, periodontal disease in its most severe form, affects nearly half of Americans aged 30 and over. At an advanced stage this could lead to early tooth loss. Recent studies have also shown that this could increase the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Why is a new clbad of membranes needed?

Alireza Moshaverinia, lead author of the study and adjunct professor of prosthodontics at UCLA School of Dentistry, said: "Given the current drawbacks of guided tissue regeneration, we have found the need to develop a new clbad of membranes properties with a flexible coating that can adhere to a range of biological surfaces. We have also found a way to extend the drug delivery time, which is essential for effective wound healing. "

The new polymer membrane

The team used an FDA-approved polymer, a large-scale synthetic molecule commonly used in biomedical applications, but the polymer surface is not suitable for cell adhesion in the treatment of periodontal disease, researchers have used a polydopamine coating.

The polydopamine coating is a polymer that has excellent adhesive properties. It can be attached to surfaces even in wet weather. It also accelerates bone regeneration by promoting the mineralization of hydroxyapatite, the mineral constituting the enamel of the teeth and bones.

Lead co-author Paul Weiss, who is also president of the UC and distinguished professor of chemistry and biochemistry, bioengineering and materials science and engineering at UCLA, explained: "By creating a micro-pattern at the membrane surface, we can locate the cell adhesion and manipulate the structure of the membrane. We were able to mimic the complex structure of the periodontal tissue and, once placed, our membrane completes the correct biological function on each side. "