Effect of polymerization method on the biocompatibility of denture base resins in a tissue-engineered three-dimensional model of human oral mucosa

• Applicant: Dr. Oskar Bunz, since 1/2024
• Subject Area: Dentistry, Oral Surgery
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 461248465

In prosthetic dentistry, there will be a continuously high demand for partial and total dentures as life expectancy increases. Therefore, the biocompatibility of denture resins such as polymethyalmethacrylate (PMMA) is still relevant. Incompatibilities, for example allergic reactions and local irritation of the oral mucosa, are frequently described biological complications. The recent evolution of Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies for denture manufacturing, such as 3D printing and milling technologies, underlines the need for comprehensive biocompatibility testing. We will use our newly established in vitro 3D model of the human oral mucosa to investigate the cellular tissue response to denture resins. For the first time, two conventional and two CAD/CAM-manufactured PMMA-based denture materials will be compared with respect to their biocompatibility. Beyond general cytotoxicity tests, we will investigate the expression of inflammation markers, such as interleukins and interferons, and markers of cell-cell and cell-matrix interaction, such as CD44, collagens, integrins and matrix metalloproteinases. In functional assays the influence of the materials on cell migration and wound healing processes will be investigated. Our investigations not only provide knowledge about the biocompatibility of the four PMMA materials, but also about the significance of the polymerization process for biocompatibility.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigator: Professor Dr. Phillipp Brockmeyer
• Ehemalige Antragstellerin: Dr. Andrea Schubert, until 12/2023