Copper-Doped Carbon Dots For Multi-Target Periodontitis Therapy

To investigate the multi-target synergistic mechanisms of copper-doped alendronate carbon dots (Cu-ALEN CDs) in the periodontitis microenvironment through ROS scavenging, osteogenesis promotion, angiogenesis enhancement, and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Copper-doped alendronate carbon dots (Cu-ALEN CDs) were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, and their nanozyme activities (catalase/peroxidase-like activity) and physicochemical properties were characterized. The regulatory effects of Cu-ALEN CDs on key biological processes, including antioxidative stress, osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, were systematically validated using CCK-8 cell viability assays, RT-PCR, DCFH-DA probe assays, and immunofluorescence staining. A rat periodontitis model combined with histological staining analysis and in vitro antibacterial experiments was employed to confirm the therapeutic and reparative efficacy of the material. Cu-ALEN CDs synergistically activated osteogenic differentiation genes (Runx2, COL-1, ALP) and calcium nodule formation via ROS scavenging. They upregulated VEGF expression to promote vascular network formation in HUVECs and exhibited robust antibacterial activity against pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis through ROS-mediated membrane damage and biofilm disruption. As multifunctional nanozymes, Cu-ALEN CDs remodel the periodontitis microenvironment through multi-target regulation, overcoming the limitations of traditional single-target therapies. This study provides an innovative strategy for repairing periodontitis-related bone defects.