Minocycline-loaded PLGA electrospun membrane prevents alveolar bone loss in experimental peridontitis

Abstract

Minocycline (MINO) is a tetracycline antibiotic effective against most of the bacteria microorganisms related to periodontal disease. Additionally, MINO promotes bone <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. The objective of the present study was to establish the protocol for the preparation of MINO-loaded poly (lactic-<i>co</i>-glycolic acid) (MINO-PLGA) electrospun membranes and to evaluate their effect on osteogenesis <i>in vitro</i> and in a rat model of periodontitis. The characterization of MINO-PLGA electrospun membranes was assessed by scanning electron microscopy, laser scanning confocal microscopy, and contact angle measurement. The drug release study showed a sustained diffusion of MINO from electrospun membranes over a period of 40 d. The MINO-PLGA membranes containing 2% of the drug exhibited better support of osteoblast proliferation and adhesion and was subsequently used <i>in vivo</i> in an experimental periodontitis model. Its therapeutic potential was evaluated by the measurement of alveolar bone loss (ABL), bone volume analysis, histological analysis, and immunohistochemistry. MINO-PLGA membrane increased alveolar crest height in the periodontitis model, inhibited the expression of the ligand of the receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB (RANKL), and promoted the expression of its inhibitor, osteoprotegerin. The study demonstrated that MINO-PLGA electrospun membranes may be applied to stimulate bone regeneration in periodontitis.