The interactions of Mg2+/Zn2+-containing silicate materials with stem cells and bacteria

Persistent periapical disease is usually caused by Enterococcus faecalis infection and involves loss of alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. Silicate-based ceramics have been a research hot spot to repair bone defects. The objective of this study was to compare the interactions of Mg2+ and Zn2+ containing silicate and phosphate bioceramics with stem cells and bacteria. Results revealed that diopside (DIOP) and hardystonite (HT) were superior to β-TCP in either enhancing periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) proliferation or the antibacterial effect. DIOP and HT were comparable to β-TCP on osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of PDLCs. Silicate-based materials had better osteostimulation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) than phosphate-based material. In conclusion, Mg2+ and Zn2+ containing silicate materials may have great potential use for healing and tissue regeneration in apical periodontitis with infected alveolar bone defects.