Abstract
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a biaxial joint that functions in articulation, food acquisition and mastication. According to the National Institutes of Health, 3–5% population of the American population suffers from some form of TMJ disorder (TMJD). This study's objective was to develop a bioactive hydrogel that is osteoconductive, osteogenic, biodegradable and will mimic the internal environment of the TMJ. Calcium alginate hydrogels (2%) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) (1%) nanocomposites were loaded with Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP2). Osteoblasts were encapsulated within these hydrogel nanocomposites. These constructs were cultured over a 21‐day period and cell behavior assessed for cell proliferation, functionality, mineralization, etc. HNTs released BMP2 in a sustained fashion and enhanced osteocyte differentiation and tissue formation as compared with controls (+BMP2/no HNT or HNTs only). Cell proliferation, mineralization and protein content increased over the experimental period. Our results suggest that HNT/alginate hydrogel composites may serve as a viable repair system for TMJDs. Funding provided by the State of Louisiana Governor's Biotechnology Initiative.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
