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Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research,...
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Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Drug Targeting and Design".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 July 2026) | Viewed by 10308

Editors

Dr. Pavel Seredin

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Guest Editor
1. Solid State Physics and Nanostructures Department, Voronezh State University, University Sq. 1, 394018 Voronezh, Russia
2. Scientific and Educational Center “Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies”, Ural Federal University Named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin, Mir av., 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia
Interests: dental tissue and biofilm; caries; new bioactive materials; biomimetic approach; regeneration of dental tissue; personalized express diagnostics; interaction of synchrotron radiation with matter; modeling of physical processes; enhanced raman scattering
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Dmitry Goloshchapov

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Guest Editor
Solid State Physics and Nanostructures Department, Voronezh State University, University Sq. 1, 394018 Voronezh, Russia
Interests: bioactive materials for dentistry; biomineralization; structure of biogenic substance; spectroscopic research methods for medicine
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to contribute your valuable work to the Special Issue “Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition”.

Novel biomaterials and pharmaceutical agents for the effective regeneration/remineralization and protection of dental tissue are a focus of biomedical science. One of the most important research directions in modern therapeutic and preventive dentistry is the search for methods to preserve and gently restore or to reproduce the natural structure and morphology of natural enamel, dentin and cement. As a result, the main modern non-invasive dental tissue regeneration/restoration strategy, including biomimetics, is focused on the reconstruction of mineralized tissue, as well as on its preventive protection. Currently, great attention is paid to smart, bioactive and bioresponsive agents, materials and composites in order to provide on-demand therapy with improved control of dosage, location, duration and efficiency of effect.

This Special Issue focuses on the problems and challenges associated with the creation, use and modification of new smart biomaterials, hybrid interfaces and protective layers, as well as agents for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications in dental research. This Special Issue also welcomes papers related to the study of the effects of drugs on mineralized tissues of the human body and related processes.

Research articles, reviews and short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website. We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Pavel Seredin
Dr. Dmitry Goloshchapov
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmaceutics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biomaterials
  • pharmaceutical agents
  • dentifrice and drugs
  • regeneration/restoration strategy
  • biomimetics
  • dental tissue
  • biomineralization
  • hybrid interfaces
  • protective layers and coatings
  • smart dental materials
  • bioresponsive biomaterials

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 2854 KB  
Article
Microfluidic Fabrication of Alendronate-Modified Lipid Nanoparticles for Bone-Targeted mRNA Delivery
by Kangling Xu, Junyu Su, Hailin Ma and Yanxia Zhu
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(4), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18040509 - 20 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1403
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Bone-targeted drug delivery systems hold great promise for treating skeletal diseases, yet the optimal strategy for functionalizing lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with bone-homing ligands remains insufficiently explored. Herein, we compared two alendronate sodium (Alen) modification approaches (pre-conjugation and post-conjugation) for constructing bone-targeted LNPs [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Bone-targeted drug delivery systems hold great promise for treating skeletal diseases, yet the optimal strategy for functionalizing lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with bone-homing ligands remains insufficiently explored. Herein, we compared two alendronate sodium (Alen) modification approaches (pre-conjugation and post-conjugation) for constructing bone-targeted LNPs capable of delivering mRNA to skeletal tissues. Methods: LNPs were fabricated via microfluidic mixing, and the 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-polyethylene glycol-alendronate conjugate (DSPE-PEG-Alen) required for the pre-conjugation method was synthesized. The bone-targeting ability of LNPs prepared by the two Alen modification strategies was evaluated using an in vitro hydroxyapatite (HAP) binding assay. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties, bone-targeting performance, mRNA delivery efficiency, and biosafety of the LNPs prepared by the post-conjugation method were assessed through cellular uptake, in vivo imaging, and other methods. Results: Hydroxyapatite binding assays revealed that the post-conjugation strategy afforded significantly superior bone affinity compared to the pre-conjugation approach. In addition, ex vivo bone fragment binding experiments further confirmed that the bone-targeting LNPs prepared by the post-conjugation method exhibited stronger bone-binding capability compared to unmodified LNPs. The optimized Alen-LNPs demonstrated efficient cellular uptake and functional mRNA translation in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells with negligible cytotoxicity. In vivo studies in mice confirmed the preferential accumulation of Alen-LNPs in bone tissues, with successful green fluorescent protein (GFP) mRNA translation detected in bone tissue sections. Histopathological analysis confirmed the biosafety of the formulation. Conclusions: This study establishes the post-conjugation strategy as the superior approach for Alen functionalization of LNPs, providing a robust and reproducible platform for bone-targeted mRNA therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 8849 KB  
Article
Innovative Titanium Implants Coated with miR-21-Loaded Nanoparticle for Peri-Implantitis Prevention
by Anna Valentino, Raffaele Conte, Pierfrancesco Cerruti, Roberta Condò, Gianfranco Peluso and Anna Calarco
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(1), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18010142 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 971
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Peri-implantitis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting tissues surrounding dental implants and is characterized by progressive marginal bone loss that can ultimately lead to implant failure. Reduced vascularization and impaired immune clearance in peri-implant tissues contribute to persistent inflammation and limited therapeutic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Peri-implantitis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting tissues surrounding dental implants and is characterized by progressive marginal bone loss that can ultimately lead to implant failure. Reduced vascularization and impaired immune clearance in peri-implant tissues contribute to persistent inflammation and limited therapeutic efficacy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), particularly miR-21, have emerged as key regulators of inflammatory responses and bone remodeling. The objective of this study was to develop a bioactive dental implant coating capable of locally delivering miR-21 to modulate inflammation and promote peri-implant tissue regeneration, thereby preventing peri-implantitis. Methods: Cationic nanoparticles were synthesized using lecithin and low-molecular-weight polyethylenimine (PEI) as a non-viral delivery system for miR-21. Lecithin was employed to enhance biocompatibility, while PEI functionalization provided a positive surface charge to improve miRNA complexation and cellular uptake. The resulting lecithin–PEI nanoparticles (LEC–PEI NPs) were incorporated into a chitosan-based coating and applied to titanium implant surfaces to obtain a sustained miR-21–releasing system (miR21-implant). Transfection efficiency and biological activity were evaluated in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs) and compared with a commercial transfection reagent (Lipofectamine). Release kinetics and long-term activity of miR-21 from the coating were also assessed. Results: MiR-21-loaded LEC–PEI nanoparticles demonstrated significantly higher transfection efficiency than Lipofectamine and retained marked biological activity in hPDLFs relevant to peri-implantitis prevention. The chitosan-based nanoparticle coating enabled controlled and sustained miR-21 release over time, supporting prolonged modulation of inflammatory and osteogenic signaling pathways involved in peri-implant tissue homeostasis. Conclusions: The miR21-implant system, based on lecithin–PEI nanoparticles incorporated into a chitosan coating, represents a promising therapeutic strategy for peri-implantitis prevention. By enabling sustained local delivery of miR-21, this approach has the potential to preserve peri-implant bone architecture, modulate chronic inflammation, and enhance the osseointegration of titanium dental implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 3425 KB  
Article
Antibacterial and Anti-Adherence Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Against Endodontic Biofilms: An In Vitro and Ex Vivo Study
by Mariana Goretti Pérez-Sáenz, Rita Elizabeth Martínez-Martínez, Erasto Armando Zaragoza-Contreras, Rubén Abraham Domínguez-Pérez, Simón Yobanny Reyes-López, Alejandro Donohue-Cornejo, Juan Carlos Cuevas-González, Karla Lizette Tovar-Carrillo, Erika de Lourdes Silva-Benítez, José Luis Ayala-Herrera and León Francisco Espinosa-Cristóbal
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 831; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070831 - 26 Jun 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1880
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Root canal infections represent a serious challenge to the success of endodontic treatment. The most commonly used antimicrobial irrigants, such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), have certain limitations, while endodontic biofilms pose a significant microbiological complexity in the endodontic field. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Root canal infections represent a serious challenge to the success of endodontic treatment. The most commonly used antimicrobial irrigants, such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), have certain limitations, while endodontic biofilms pose a significant microbiological complexity in the endodontic field. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising irrigant option in root canal treatments; however, few studies are focusing on endodontic biofilms. This work aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-adherence properties of AgNPs against clinically isolated bacteria taken directly from patients with various pulp and periapical diseases. Methods: AgNPs of two sizes were synthesized and characterized. The bactericidal and anti-adherence activities of AgNPs were evaluated through microbiological assays using experimental in vitro and ex vivo tests on oral biofilms taken from patients with symptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP) and pulp necrosis (PN). NaOCl solution was used as the gold standard. Results: The size of AgNPs was uniformly distributed (13.2 ± 0.4 and 62.6 ± 14.9 nm, respectively) with a spherical shape. Both types of nanoparticles exhibited good antimicrobial and anti-adherence activities in all microbiological assays, with a significant difference from NaOCl for in vitro and ex vivo models (p < 0.05). The inhibitory activity of AgNPs is mainly related to the type of microbiological sample and the exposure time. The antibacterial substantivity of both nanoparticle sizes was time-dependent. Conclusions: AgNPs may represent a promising antimicrobial option as an endodontic irrigant during conventional root canal treatments to prevent and control endodontic infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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Review

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12 pages, 267 KB  
Review
Mathematical Modeling of Local Drug Delivery in the Oral Cavity: From Release Kinetics to Mini-PBPK and Local PK/PD with Applications to Periodontal Therapies
by Rafał Rakoczy, Monika Machoy-Rakoczy and Izabela Gutowska
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18010101 - 12 Jan 2026
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1060
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mathematical modelling provides a quantitative way to describe the fate and action of drugs in the oral cavity, where transport processes are shaped by salivary flow, pellicle formation, biofilm structure and the wash-out effect of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Local pharmacokinetics in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Mathematical modelling provides a quantitative way to describe the fate and action of drugs in the oral cavity, where transport processes are shaped by salivary flow, pellicle formation, biofilm structure and the wash-out effect of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Local pharmacokinetics in the mouth differ substantially from systemic models, and therefore a dedicated framework is required. The aim of this work was to present a structured, physiologically based concept that links in vitro release testing with local pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Methods: A narrative review with elements of systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (1980–2025) for publications describing drug release, local PBPK, and PK/PD modelling in the oral cavity. Mathematical formulations were grouped into release kinetics, mini-PBPK transport and local PK/PD relations. Classical models (Higuchi, Korsmeyer–Peppas, Peppas–Sahlin) were integrated with a mini-PBPK structure describing saliva–mucosa–biofilm–pocket interactions. Results: The combined model captures adsorption to pellicle, diffusion within biofilm and wash-out by GCF. It allows simulation of variable clinical conditions, such as inflammation-related changes in QGCF, and links local exposure to pharmacodynamic outcomes. Case studies with PerioChip®, Arestin®, and Atridox® demonstrate how mechanistic models explain observed therapeutic duration and low-systemic exposure. Conclusions: The proposed mini-PBPK framework bridges empirical release data and physiological transport in the oral cavity. It supports rational formulation design, optimisation of local dosage, and personalised prediction of drug retention in gingival pockets. This modelling approach can become a practical tool for the development of dental biomaterials and subgingival therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 2374 KB  
Review
A Scoping Review of Recent Developments in Cellulose-Derived Hydrogels for Dental Applications
by Smriti Aryal A C, Md Sofiqul Islam, Marwan Mansoor Mohammed, Lina Abu-Nada, Elaf Akram Abdulhameed, Sangeetha Narasimhan, Snigdha Pattanaik and Ghee Seong Lim
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(10), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17101252 - 24 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1909
Abstract
Application of cellulose-based hydrogels in dentistry has gained significant attention. They are emerging as novel biomaterials in the field of tissue engineering, regeneration, and drug delivery in dentistry. The objective of this scoping review is to highlight and summarize recent developments of cellulose-based [...] Read more.
Application of cellulose-based hydrogels in dentistry has gained significant attention. They are emerging as novel biomaterials in the field of tissue engineering, regeneration, and drug delivery in dentistry. The objective of this scoping review is to highlight and summarize recent developments of cellulose-based hydrogels in their designs, reported applications, and laboratory functions. Methods: Between the periods of November 2014 and November 2024 (searches completed and datasets locked on 30th Nov 2024), the comprehensive electronic database search was performed in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and MyEBSCO. All the studies that are related to cellulose-based and dentistry were included in this review. This review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews. Results: Out of 518 entries found, 13 studies were qualified for inclusion. When comparative analysis of cellulose-based hydrogel-related studies was performed, most of the included studies were conducted in vitro, and they highlighted significant advancements in their functionality, their inert properties such as mechanical adaptability, design, bioactivity, biodegradability, and clinical potential. Conclusions: Cellulose-based hydrogels show great potential in regenerative dentistry, providing a biomimetic platform for tissue regeneration and drug delivery. Addressing present challenges and exploring pathways towards clinical translation will be critical to know their potential in the future. This review critically evaluates the strengths and weaknesses that are used in the current studies and thus, it provides a resource for future research directions for innovations in the field of regenerative dentistry and tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 569 KB  
Review
Microbiological Impact of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy in Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment
by Filipa Passos Sousa, Mariana Anselmo Assunção, Lucinda J. Bessa and Ricardo Castro Alves
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1070; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081070 - 19 Aug 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1925
Abstract
Periodontitis is one of the most common inflammatory diseases and it is linked to the presence of a dysbiotic subgingival microbiome. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the impact of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the subgingival microbiome. Herein, based on [...] Read more.
Periodontitis is one of the most common inflammatory diseases and it is linked to the presence of a dysbiotic subgingival microbiome. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the impact of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the subgingival microbiome. Herein, based on an extensive evaluation of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the effects of aPDT as a supplement to non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) were found to be the main focus of these works. Studies that focused on analyzing microbiological results were selected, yielding contradictory results. The observed microbiological changes were variable, even though some studies showed notable improvements in clinical indicators such as bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL), and probing depth (PD). Several studies found that aPDT did not significantly reduce important periodontal pathogens such Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Nevertheless, after multiple aPDT sessions, other studies reported positive changes in the subgingival microbiome, with a rise in beneficial bacteria and a decrease in periodontopathogens. While aPDT seems to be a safe and well-tolerated adjuvant to non-surgical periodontal therapy, there is still conflicting evidence regarding how well it modulates the subgingival microbiota. Additional long-term research with larger sample sizes is required to evaluate the microbiological and clinical advantages of aPDT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Agents: Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications in Dental Research, 2nd Edition)
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