Biomimetic Dentin Repair: Amelogenin-Derived Peptide Guides Occlusion and Peritubular Mineralization of Human Teeth

Dentin hypersensitivity, a widespread oral health concern, is primarily caused by the exposure of dentin tubules due to the loss of protective tissues. Despite being a widespread ailment, no permanent solution exists to address this oral condition. Current treatments aim to alleviate pain by employing desensitizing agents or blocking dentin tubules through mineral deposition or solid precipitates, yet these interventions often provide only short-term relief.<br/>To restore the structural and mechanical integrity of teeth with lasting durability, there is a crucial need to reproduce an integrated mineral layer that seals exposed dentin while promoting peritubular mineralization. In this study, we introduce a biomimetic treatment that promotes dentin repair, utilizing a mineralization-directing peptide known as sADP5, derived from amelogenin.<br/>The occlusion of dentin tubules is achieved through a layer-by-layer peptide-guided remineralization process, resulting in the formation of an infiltrating mineral layer on the dentin. The structure, composition, and nanomechanical properties of the remineralized dentin were analyzed by cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy imaging, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and nanomechanical testing. Elemental analysis revealed calcium and phosphate compositions akin to hydroxyapatite. Furthermore, the measured average hardness and reduced elastic modulus values of the mineral layer were significantly higher than those of the demineralized and sound human dentin. Thermal aging experiments provided evidence of the structural integration between the newly formed mineral layer and the underlying dentin, with no physical separation observed. These findings suggest the creation of a structurally robust and mechanically resilient interface that can endure long-term mechanical and thermal challenges commonly encountered in the oral environment.<br/>The peptide-guided remineralization process outlined herein provide a foundation for the development of highly effective oral care products leading to novel biomimetic treatments for a wide range of demineralization-related ailments and offers a potent long-term solution for dentin hypersensitivity.