Tin Nanoparticles Suppress Porphyromonas Gingivalis Biofilm Formation

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Titanium Nitride (TiN) nanoparticles, irradiated by near-infrared (NIR) light, as a novel photothermal therapeutic strategy for managing periodontitis caused by Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis). The antibacterial and antibiofilm activities, as well as the biocompatibility of TiN nanoparticles, were assessed to explore their feasibility for clinical applications. TiN nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized for their photothermal properties. The antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against P. gingivalis were evaluated using colony-forming unit (CFU) assays, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection, ATP level measurements, and crystal violet staining. Biocompatibility was assessed using human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSC) and MC3T3 cells, focusing on cell viability and osteogenic differentiation under NIR irradiation. Statistical analyses were performed to ensure the significance of the findings. TiN nanoparticles demonstrated significant photothermal antibacterial activity against P. gingivalis, achieving over 99% bacterial inactivation under NIR irradiation at low concentrations. ROS production and ATP depletion were identified as key antibacterial mechanisms. Additionally, TiN nanoparticles effectively disrupted P. gingivalis biofilms. Biocompatibility tests revealed no significant cytotoxicity, with hDPSC and MC3T3 cells maintaining viability and osteogenic differentiation under experimental conditions. TiN nanoparticles, activated by NIR irradiation, exhibit excellent antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against P. gingivalis, with minimal cytotoxicity and high biocompatibility. These findings suggest that TiN nanoparticles hold promise as a non-invasive and efficient therapeutic agent for managing periodontitis, offering an innovative alternative to conventional treatments.