Ferumoxytol, an iron oxide nanoparticle formulation, may effectively treat biofilm infections and improve root canal disinfection, according to researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (Penn Dental).
When combined with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nanoparticles can effectively disrupt biofilms due to their small size and antimicrobial properties, according to a story from the university dated February 21.
"This is the first study showing the clinical efficacy of a nanotherapy in the treatment of a severe chronic biofilm infection," Hyun (Michel) Koo, a professor from the department of orthodontics at Penn Dental, said in the story.
Biofilms attach to surfaces and contribute to stubborn infections. Their protective matrix and antimicrobial resistance make them difficult to treat, as seen in dental plaque. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is the standard disinfectant for root canals, but it can cause complications if it spreads beyond the treatment area, according to the story.
For this study, researchers treated 44 patients with periapical periodontitis using either ferumoxytol/H2O2, saline, or NaOCl after standard endodontic surgery. Bacterial samples were collected before and after treatment to assess their effectiveness.
Patients who received ferumoxytol/H2O2 achieved a 99.9% reduction in bacteria counts without adverse effects. Unexpectedly, the study revealed that nanozymes stimulated the growth of stem cells at the tip of developing tooth roots, enhancing bone formation, according to the story.
Nevertheless, this discovery may open new possibilities for using ferumoxytol nanozymes in vital pulp therapy, potentially preventing the need for root canals in early-stage disease. Additionally, nanozymes could aid in repairing craniofacial bone defects and treating bone-related conditions.
"Iron oxide nanozymes may be a transformative new class of therapeutics that provides both antibiofilm and tissue regenerative properties, offering a regenerative approach to antimicrobial therapy," Koo said in the story.
