Evaluation of the association of enamel matrix derived proteins to biphasic calcium phosphate

Abstract

Background : Biphasic calcium phosphate has osteoconductive properties and has been associated with the enamel matrix derived proteins in bone graft procedures in clinical practice. The interactions between inorganic biomaterials and biomolecules, although complex, can occur and to improve the understanding of these interfacial interactions. Aim/Hypothesis : The present study aims to evaluate the presence of the enamel matrix derived proteins (EMD) on the surface of the alloplastic biomaterial constituted by biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP). Materials and Methods : The samples were divided into 3 groups: 1) BCP only, 2) EMD only, 3) EMD-associated BCP, being analyzed in triplicate, using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) at 400x and 2500x magnifications and chemically characterized by Spectroscopy by Energy Dispersion (EDS). Results : The results showed a standard regular surface in the pure biomaterial and when it was associated with EMD, areas of discontinuity were observed, suggesting its presence in contact with the biomaterial, being confirmed by EDS with the presence of carbon distributed over the surface of the biomaterial. In EMD, carbon and oxygen were observed. In the alloplastic biomaterial, phosphorus, calcium and oxygen were observed. Conclusions and Clinical Implications : Given the observed results, we can conclude that EMD remains on the BCP surface, suggesting that the biomaterial acts as a carrier for these biomolecules. Larger studies evaluating their chemical interactions should be carried out.