BMTBiomaterials TranslationalTBA2096-112XBiomaterials Translational10.12336/bmt.25.00059Research ArticleGelatin/chitosan delivery system improves stability and regenerative potential of Ca(OH)2 in an open dental pulp modelhttps://artdesignp.com/journal/BMT/0/0/10.12336/bmt.25.00059EndytiastutiEndytiastuti,ArdhaniRetno,PidhatikaBidhari,SwasonoYogi A.,RudiantoReza P.,HandajaniJuni,Al-qattaGhadah A.,SudarsoIwa S. R.,BusraFauzi Mh2025002025-10-02Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) has a long history as an agent to induce hard tissue regeneration in teeth. However, its high solubility requires inefficient repeated applications. Its alkalinity has two-sided effects: antibacterial property, but simultaneously compromises cell viability. This study prepared a composite of gelatin/chitosan to deliver Ca(OH)2 using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as the crosslinker. The chemical and physical properties of the composite were compared with unmodified Ca(OH)2 aloneusing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, followed by an investigation into the release or dissolution of Ca2+ from both materials. A total of 16 Wistar rats were allocated to receive either the composite or Ca(OH)2 after dental pulp exposure. Regenerative potential was assessed after 7 and 14 days by histological evaluation of odontoblast-like cell numbers and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) expression, with statistical analysis performed at a 95% confidence level. The gelatin/chitosan/Ca(OH)2/TEOS composite was successfully synthesized and exhibited controlled Ca2+ release. The results demonstrated a higher odontoblast-like cell proliferation and stronger TGF-β1 expression in the composite-treated group after 7 days of application, indicating a more intensive regeneration than the Ca(OH)2 control. After 14 days, the number of odontoblast-like cells in both groups did not differ significantly. However, TGF-β1 expression was significantly more pronounced. In conclusion, the incorporation of Ca(OH)2 into a gelatin/chitosan matrix using TEOS as a crosslinker successfully decreases its solubility without impairing the ability to induce dental pulp regeneration. Polymer, Pulp capping, Regenerative endodontic, Tetraethyl orthosilicate, SDG 3

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