(PR71) Cellular Activity of GelMA, a Photopolymerized Hydrogel, as an Alternative to Biodentine

Abstract:

Objective: Currently used pulp capping agents induce chemical stimulation, unlike the regeneration of pulp-dentin complex. This study investigated the cellular activity of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) on Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel, compared to calcium-silicate-based Biodentine.

Methods: DPSCs were seeded on dentin discs, and the central part was filled with GelMA (10%) or Biodentine, and the gel polymerization was induced using a light-emitting diode (LED). Monolayer cells or cells on untreated dentin discs were used as controls. Viability, migration, and mineralization potential of DPSCs and angiogenic tubule formation and von-Willebrand factor (vWF) expression of HUVECs were determined. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests with pairwise comparisons at the significance level of 0.05.

Results: Viability of DPSCs was similar in the GelMA, Biodentine, and untreated dentin discs at 4 days (p >0.05), while GelMA significantly improved cell viability after 7 days compared to Biodentine (p < 0.05). DPSCs migration increased through the untreated dentin surface, followed by GelMA which was superior to Biodentine (p < 0.05). ALP activity was higher in GelMA, untreated dentin, and monolayer culture than Biodentine (p < 0.05). Culturing of HUVECs with the GelMA and untreated dentin extracts showed similar vWF expression and vascular density (p >0.05). However, the Biodentine extract had significantly decreased vWF expression (p < 0.05) and inhibited angiogenic tubule formation.

Conclusion: GelMA improved the viability, angiogenic, and mineralization properties of cells compared to Biodentine, showing its potential for regenerative procedures.