Summary:
UCLA researchers from the School of Dentistry have developed zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles-based implant coating system for the controlled release of therapeutics.
Background:
One of the most significant advancements in clinical dentistry over the past four decades is the development of osteointegrated dental implants. These implants have become a routine and reliable solution for replacing teeth in both completely and partially edentulous patients. Various surface modifications have been explored to enhance therapeutic effects, with implants designed to stimulate bone formation (osteoinduction) and ensure seamless integration with the body (osteointegration). This process relies on the coordinated release of growth factors and peptides, which are incorporated into the implant through surface coatings. However, current coatings face limitations: they cannot store sufficient quantities of bioactive molecules and only offer a limited release. Additionally, dental implants are prone to periimplantitis, the most common inflammatory complication in implantology. This condition leads to bone loss around the implant and, if untreated, to the loss of the implant itself. Described recently as a "time bomb," peri-implantitis represents a serious complication. Present technologies fail to prevent this disease, highlighting a critical unmet need for an implant coating that can deliver a sustained and long-term release of bioactive molecules to support bone formation and growth.
Innovation:
Researchers at UCLA's School of Dentistry have developed innovative nanoparticles based on Zeolite Imidazole Framework-8 (ZIF-8) for use in dental implant coatings. These coatings are infused with bioactive molecules that promote bone mineralization. Titanium-based dental implants coated with these biomolecule-loaded nanoparticles have demonstrated enhanced cell adhesion and reduced inflammation. Additionally, the coating offers antibacterial properties that combat bacteria responsible for peri-implantitis. The chemical and physical properties of the coating ensure stability for the biomolecules, maintaining their integrity under high temperatures and pressures. This versatile system can be adapted to a wide range of implants, providing a long-term and sustained release of various biomolecules presenting a novel preventive and treatment modality for periimplantitis which is the most common dental implant disease.
Credit: Alireza Moshaverinia
Potential Applications:
• Dental implants
• Bone screws
• Biomedical devices
• Orthopedic implants
Advantages:
• Novel preventive and treatment modality for periimplantitis
• Enhanced bioactivity
• Immunomudolatory properties
• Antibacterial properties
• Sustained release of growth factors and bioactive molecules
• Stability
• Biocompatibility
Development-To-Date:
The first demonstration of the invention is complete (08/01/2022).
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2023-141
Lead Inventor:
Alireza Moshaverinia