Descrição
Objective. In the treatment of periodontal defects, composite membranes might be applied
to protect the injured area and simultaneously stimulate tissue regeneration. This
work describes the development and characterization of poly(d,l-lactic acid)/Bioglass®
(PDLLA/BG) composite membranes with asymmetric bioactivity. We hypothesized that the
presence of BG microparticles could enhance structural and osteoconductivity performance
of pure PDLLA membranes.
Methods. The membranes were prepared by an adjusted solvent casting method that
promoted a non-uniform distribution of the inorganic component along the membrane
thickness. In vitro bioactive behavior (precipitation of an apatite layer upon immersion in
simulated body fluid, SBF), SEM observation, FTIR, swelling, weight loss and mechanical
properties of the developed biomaterials were evaluated. Cell behavior on the membranes
was assessed using both human bone marrow stromal cells and human periodontal ligament
cells.
Results. Just the BG rich face of the composite membranes induced the precipitation of
bone-like apatite in SBF, indicating that this biomaterial exhibit asymmetric osteoconductive
properties. SEM images, DNA content and metabolic activity quantification revealed an
improved cell adhesion and proliferation on the composite membranes. Composite membranes
also stimulated cell differentiation, mineralization, and production of extracellular
matrix and calcium nodules, suggesting the positive effect of adding the bioactive microparticles
in the PDLLA matrix.
Significance. The results indicate that the proposed asymmetric PDLLA/BG membranes could
have potential to be used in guided tissue regeneration therapies or in orthopedic applications,
with improved outcomes.
; Caridade, S. G. 
