Design and Optimization of Chitosan/Montmorillonite Nanoparticle for Sustained Vancomycin Delivery in Peri-implantitis

Abstract

Background: Dental implants are increasingly utilized to replace lost teeth; however, peri-implantitis — a condition primarily caused by bacterial plaque — poses substantial challenges to maintaining implant success and the health of surrounding tissues. Effective management strategies, including localized antibiotic delivery, are essential. Objectives: This study aims to investigate an innovative treatment for peri-implantitis utilizing a chitosan-based nanocarrier formulated with montmorillonite and vancomycin (CS/MMT/VAN). The focus is on optimizing the formulation to enhance antibiotic therapy. Methods: Optimization of various nanoparticle concentrations and ratios was performed using design of experiment (DoE) software to ensure efficient drug delivery. Characterization of the nanoparticles was performed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Polydispersity Index (PDI), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The nanoparticles were synthesized via electrospray and incorporated into a sol-gel carrier system. Additionally, a thermo-responsive gel was developed to evaluate its gelling properties and potential as a delivery medium. In vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxicity assays were performed. Results: The study demonstrated nanoparticle sizes ranging from 117 to 389 nm with encapsulation efficiency (EE) between 52% and 88%. The optimized CS/MMT/VAN formulation contained 2.45% CS, a polymer-to-drug (P/D) ratio of 2.21%, and a CS-to-clay ratio of 2.43%. This formulation exhibited a sustained vancomycin (VAN) release profile, characterized by an initial burst followed by prolonged release over 21 days. Characterization confirmed an average particle size of approximately 300 nm and EE close to 85%. In vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxicity assays further validated the efficacy and safety of the formulation. Conclusions: The developed CS-based nanocarrier demonstrates significant potential in the management of peri-implantitis through its effective drug delivery mechanism. Further clinical evaluation is warranted to ascertain its efficacy in in vivo applications.