Characterization and application of in Situ curcumin/ZNP hydrogels for periodontitis treatment

Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease impacting the tissues supporting teeth, demands innovative therapeutic strategies. While scaling and root planning (SRP) remain the gold standard, adjunctive treatments are needed to address bacterial persistence and bone resorption. This study explored an in situ curcumin/zinc oxide nanoparticle (Cur/ZNP) hydrogel designed to enhance antibacterial action, reduce inflammation, and promote bone health. Methods included in vitro antibacterial and cytotoxicity evaluations, as well as in vivo testing using a rat periodontitis model. Hydrogels were applied to periodontal pockets, and outcomes such as bacterial growth inhibition, transcriptional responses in gingival tissues, and alveolar bone preservation were assessed. Key markers, osteocalcin (OCN) and osteoprotegerin (OPG), were analyzed to gauge bone metabolism. Results demonstrated that the Cur/ZNP hydrogel exhibited synergistic antibacterial effects against Porphyromonas gingivalis, superior biocompatibility, and robust modulation of immune responses compared to individual Cur or ZNP hydrogels. Alveolar bone loss was significantly mitigated, with enhanced OCN and OPG expression indicating improved bone preservation. Cur/ZNP hydrogels represent a promising advancement in periodontitis management, offering enhanced bacterial inhibition, immune modulation, and bone health support. Future studies should optimize formulation stability and explore broader antimicrobial effects to realize clinical potential.