Development and evaluation of a PLGA/TiO₂ nanocomposite for periodontal applications: Synthesis, characterization, and cytocompatibility with human gingival fibroblasts—An in vitro study

Abstract

Background. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles exhibit promising antibacterial and structural properties but raise concerns of cytotoxicity in oral soft tissues. Incorporating TiO₂ into biocompatible polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) may reduce these adverse effects and improve clinical applicability in periodontal therapy.

Methods. TiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized via a modified sol–gel method and incorporated into PLGA matrices with and without polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a stabilizer. The formulations were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Cytocompatibility was evaluated using the MTT assay on HGF cells across concentrations of 1–100 μg/mL after 24 and 48 h.

Results. TiO₂ nanoparticles alone induced significant, dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity, reducing cell viability to ~45% at 100 μg/mL after 48 h (P<0.01). Pure PLGA maintained>90% cell viability at all tested concentrations. The PLGA/TiO₂ nanocomposite showed markedly reduced cytotoxicity, maintaining>80% viability even at 100 μg/mL. Incorporation of PVP improved nanoparticle dispersion, as confirmed by FESEM and DLS, and enhanced the thermal stability of the composite.

Conclusion. Encapsulation of TiO₂ within a PLGA matrix significantly mitigated cytotoxicity while preserving structural stability, with PVP further improving homogeneity and heat resistance. These findings highlight the potential of PLGA/TiO₂ nanocomposites as safe and effective candidates for periodontal wound dressings, implant coatings, or regenerative scaffolds.