Zein-based composite films containing bioactive glass for potential periodontal tissue regeneration

Periodontitis, a prevalent inflammatory disease, leads to destruction of periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone, requiring regenerative therapies. Bioactive glass (BG) possesses osteoinductive and antibacterial properties but is limited by brittleness. Zein and hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) are promising biopolymers that can enhance BG mechanical stability in composite films. However, their combined use for periodontal therapy remains underexplored. In this study, zein/HPC films containing polyethylene glycol (PEG) and BG (A-PEG-BG (4.2 % zein/1.8 % HPC) and B-PEG-BG (3.6 % zein/2.4 % HPC)) were developed via casting, aiming to enhance mechanical properties and calcium ion (Ca 2 + ) release. Films were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analyses, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile testing, and Ca 2+ release in simulated body fluid. Matrix interactions with BG were confirmed by amide band shifts in FTIR, XRD validated amorphous structure and improved films thermal stability was observed due to the increase in degradation temperature. SEM micrographs showed a rough surface of B-PEG-BG film, which may be important for periodontal tissue regeneration and cell infiltration. B-PEG-BG achieved elongation at break 4.685 % and Young's modulus of 82.113 MPa, while A-PEG-BG achieved values of 6.171 % and 57.883 MPa, respectively, demonstrating preserved mechanical integrity of the films. BG-containing films exhibited controlled Ca 2+ release with zein/HPC ratios influencing kinetics: B-PEG-BG showed faster release, while A-PEG-BG demonstrated sustained release. These findings demonstrate the potential of zein-HPC-BG films as cost-effective biomaterials for periodontal regeneration, encouraging further in vivo applications and clinical efficacy studies.