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Assessing the role of PEKK implant material on cytotoxicity, inflammatory response, and molecular interactions with pro-inflammatory cytokines: An in-vitro and in-silico study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: and aim: Due to its excellent mechanical strength and biocompatibility, Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) is emerging as a potential substitute for titanium in dental implant applications. The aim of the study was to evaluate its cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory responses, and molecular interactions to assess its potential in implant applications. Methods: This study evaluated the cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory cytokine responses, and molecular interactions of PEKK compared to titanium. Disc-shaped samples (10 mm × 2 mm) were fabricated for each material following ISO standards. Human periodontal fibroblast cells were cultured and treated with the samples for cytotoxicity assessment using the MTT assay, while pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression (IL-1β, TNF-α) was analyzed via real-time PCR. Molecular docking was conducted using AutoDock to investigate PEKK's binding interactions with cytokines, and data was analyzed with one-way ANOVA and post hoc test (P < 0.05). Results: PEKK showed comparable cytocompatibility to titanium, yielding similar outcomes in cell viability (P > 0.05) or pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (P > 0.05). Molecular docking revealed strong interactions with IL-1β (-8.9 kcal/mol) and TNF-α (-7.3 kcal/mol). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that PEKK exhibits comparable cytocompatibility and pro-inflammatory responses to titanium, with a potential to modulate inflammatory pathways. Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm its clinical viability as an implant material. Clinical relevance: This study gives the clue of PEKK as an aesthetic implant biomaterial and it can be useful as an alternative to Titanium dental implant.

Source: Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2025.08.004

Authors: Amrutha Shenoy, Subhabrata Maiti, Selvaraj Jayaram, Pradeep kumar yadalam, Jessy Paulraj

Institution: Saveetha University

Language: English

Topic: Dental Implant Techniques and Outcomes

Subfield: Oral Surgery

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800