Usc-Exos Hydrogel Scaffold For Periodontal Regeneration

Periodontal bone defects remain a significant challenge in clinical dentistry, requiring innovative regenerative strategies. This study aims to evaluate the potential of a 3D-printed biomimetic hydrogel scaffold loaded with urine-derived stem cell-derived exosomes (USC-Exos) in promoting periodontal bone regeneration. USC-Exos were isolated and characterized using nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and Western blotting to confirm their exosomal properties. A biomimetic hydrogel scaffold was fabricated via 3D printing and incorporated with USC-Exos to enhance bioactivity. In vitro experiments assessed the scaffold’s ability to promote periodontal ligament stem cell (PDLSC) proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation using alkaline phosphatase activity assays and gene expression analysis. In vivo, a rat periodontal defect model was employed to evaluate bone regeneration through micro-CT imaging and histological analysis. The 3D-printed scaffold demonstrated sustained exosome release and significantly enhanced PDLSC proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation in vitro. In vivo, micro-CT and histological evaluation revealed increased new bone formation and higher bone mineral density in the USC-Exos-loaded scaffold group compared to controls. Mechanistically, these effects were associated with activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. The 3D-printed biomimetic hydrogel scaffold serves as an effective delivery system for USC-Exos, significantly enhancing periodontal bone regeneration. This strategy provides a promising and innovative approach for periodontal tissue engineering and regenerative dentistry.