Physicochemical and Biological Characterization of a Novel MTA-Based Cement for Direct Pulp Therapy

• Grant number: 25/23174-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Endodontics
• Principal Investigator: Alice Corrêa Silva Sousa
• Grantee: Maria Eduarda Dagostim Brincas
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 26/02067-5 - Pulp-Dentin Interface Response to a Novel MTA-based Sealer in tooth-on-a-Chip device, BE.EP.IC

Abstract

Vital pulp therapies have established themselves as effective alternatives for preserving the integrity and function of dental pulp in the face of carious or traumatic lesions. In this context, bioactive materials play an essential role by promoting a controlled inflammatory response and stimulating the regeneration of the dentin-pulp complex. This study aims to evaluate the physicochemical and biological properties of the new MTA vtp cement, developed for application in pulp protection procedures. The physicochemical characterization will include analyses of setting time, pH, solubility, calcium ion release, and radiopacity. EDS and SEM analyses will also be performed, as well as microstructure analysis of the cement by Micro-CT. For biological evaluation, human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) will be used, following the guidelines of ISO 10993-5:2009. The material will be tested using the extraction method at concentrations of 1:1, 1:10, and 1:100, in comparison with white MTA. Cell viability will be assessed by MTT assay, and cytotoxicity by LDH release assay. In addition, the mineralization potential of biomaterials will be investigated. It is expected that MTA VTP will exhibit similar or superior behavior to white MTA in terms of biocompatibility and bioinductive potential, contributing to the advancement of more effective and safer materials for pulp vitality preservation. (AU)