HEMA reactivity with demineralized dentin

Objectives2-Hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) was compared to its epoxy analogue, glycidoxypropylmethacrylate (GMA), for reactivity with 2,6-diaminohexanoic acid (Lysine), an amino acid present in collagen possessing a reactive amino side chain. The aim was to verify whether HEMA could chemically react with collagen fibers.MethodsCapillary electrophoresis was used to analyse reaction products together with computer aided chemistry. Retention of HEMA in demineralized dentine particles was investigated by infrared spectroscopy.ResultsIt was found by that HEMA does not form any new molecular species when contacted with lysine whereas GMA completely reacts to form the expected addition product. Computer aided chemistry confirmed this finding. Infrared spectroscopy showed that demineralized dentin has strong affinity for HEMA and retains this monomer despite extensive water washing.ConclusionsWe interpret this behavior as demonstrating solvation of HEMA in the collagen polymer network.