Controlled Release of Growth Differentiation Factor 5 from Polyethylene Glycol-Stabilized Amorphous Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticle Electrospun Fibers to Promote Periodontal Bone Regeneration

Periodontitis, a chronic condition leading to tooth loss, is primarily caused by microbial plaque and results in alveolar bone destruction. Growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) has potential for promoting bone regeneration. However, its effectiveness is limited due to a short half-life and burst release. To address this issue, we developed amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) nanoparticles stabilized with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) through a wet chemical process and loaded them with GDF5 for controlled release. Moreover, GDF5/ACP nanospheres exhibited superior osteogenic activity in periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). Additionally, an electrospun scaffold composed of poly ε-caprolactone (PCL), collagen type I (COL), and GDF5/ACP was created to evaluate tissue regeneration using a rat model with maxillofacial burr hole bone defects. In vivo experiments have shown its remarkable ability to induce osteogenesis. By successfully designing the GDF5/ACP electrospun nanofiber scaffolds, we achieved sustained delivery of GDF5, effectively guiding PDLSCs toward bone differentiation and facilitating alveolar bone repair. This study establishes a solid basis for future utilization of this nanocomposite scaffold in the treatment of periodontal bone defects.