LL-37-infused HA/SF hydrogel scaffold promotes gingival regeneration, boosting angiogenesis and anti-inflammatory effects in rats.

Gingival recession is a prevalent oral health issue, exposing tooth roots, causing dentin hypersensitivity, and accelerating periodontitis progression. Current gold-standard treatments, such as autogenous palatal grafts, necessitate a second surgical site, increasing patient discomfort and morbidity. This creates a critical need for alternative biomaterials that can effectively augment gingival soft tissue without these drawbacks. The antimicrobial peptide LL-37 is being investigated for its broad-spectrum antibacterial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative properties, making it a promising candidate for tissue engineering applications, particularly in complex oral environments.

Researchers developed a multifunctional hyaluronic acid/silk fibroin (HA/SF) hydrogel scaffold, further enhanced by incorporating epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and the antimicrobial peptide LL-37. This HA/SF/EGCG/LL37 scaffold was designed to mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and allow for minimally invasive delivery. In vitro, the scaffold's antibacterial activity was assessed by inhibiting bacterial growth and adhesion. Its anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by measuring pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages. For in vivo assessment, the scaffold was applied in an animal model using rats, comparing its regenerative capabilities against control groups.

The novel HA/SF/EGCG/LL37 hydrogel demonstrated a multifaceted therapeutic profile. In vitro, it effectively inhibited bacterial growth and adhesion, and significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages. This suggests a direct anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action at the cellular level. In the rat model, the scaffold exhibited superior regenerative outcomes compared to controls. It significantly increased neovascular density, indicating enhanced blood vessel formation crucial for tissue repair. Furthermore, the scaffold improved collagen fiber organization, a key structural component of healthy gingival tissue. The study also observed enhanced anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in vivo. These combined actions suggest a robust biological response.

The HA/SF/EGCG/LL37 scaffold significantly increased neovascular density, improved collagen fiber organization, and enhanced anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects versus controls in rats.