Preliminary evaluates of silica/β-TCP/PLGA microspheres for dentin regeneration in vivo

Silica/β-tri-calcium phosphate/poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres, a type of bioactive and biodegradable materials, were produced by a double emulsion and solvent evaporation methods. The biological activity of the microspheres to promote dentin regeneration was investigated in vivo. First, the ionic concentration of silicon in the microspheres was detected by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The results showed the release of silicon continuously and without any obvious burst. Second, the microspheres with or without human dental pulp cells adhered were transplanted into subcutaneous pockets of nude mice to evaluate the bioactivity. The implanted material specimens were obtained after 6 weeks. The specimens were evaluated after H&E staining and toluidine blue staining. The results presented the cells ingrowth of the scaffold material and collagenous tissues around the microspheres. It was demonstrated that the material had outstanding biocompatibility and bioactivity.