Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is recognized as the gold standard for vital pulp therapy. However, its clinical utility is limited by prolonged setting and poor handling characteristics. To overcome these drawbacks, the zinc-containing partially-stabilized cement (ZnPSC), a modified silicate cement, was developed. In this study, the ZnPSC was functionalized with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and aspirin to enhance its potential as an effective pulp capping material. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The ZnPSC cements (5 %,7 %, or 10 % of Zn) were combined with poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) 1 % or 2 % as a carrier system for VEGF and aspirin. The modified materials were evaluated for the setting time, compressive strength, biocompatibility, controlled drug release, and their ability to promote osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC), assessed by alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition staining. RESULTS: Incorporation of 1 % or 2 % γ-PGA into 5 % or 7 % ZnPSC cements significantly reduced the setting time and enhanced the compressive strength, overcoming the drawbacks associated with MTA and improving clinical workability. The modified materials exhibited excellent biocompatibility without cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, the sustained delivery of VEGF and aspirin markedly enhanced the mineralization and osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs, as evidenced by increased ALP activity and calcium deposition. CONCLUSION: The novel ZnPSC cements functionalized with VEGF and aspirin demonstrated the superior handling properties, mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and enhanced regenerative potential, making it a promising candidate for the vital pulp therapy. Further, in vivo studies are warranted to validate its therapeutic efficacy and biosafety.