Biomimetic peridontium patches for functional periodontal regeneration.

The unique structure of the periodontium, including the alveolar bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament (PDL), presents difficulties for the regeneration of its intricate organization. Irreversible structural breakdown of the periodontium increases the risk of tooth loosening and loss. Although the current therapies can restore the periodontal hard tissues to a certain extent, the PDL with its high directionality of multiple groups with different orientations and functions cannot be reconstructed. Here, we report biomimetic peridontium patches (BPPs) for functional periodontal regeneration using a microscale continuous digital light projection bioprinting method. Orthotopic transplantation in the mandibles showed effective periodontal reconstruction. The resulting bioengineered tissues closely resembled natural periodontium in terms of the 'sandwich structures', especially the correctly oriented fibers, showing different and specific orientation in different regions of the tooth root, which has never been found in previous studies. Furthermore, after the assessment of clinically functional properties it was found that the regenerative periodontium could achieve stable tooth movement under orthodontic migration force with no adverse consequences. Overall, the BPPs promoted reconstruction of the functional periodontium and the complex microstructure of the periodontal tissue, providing a proof of principle for the clinical functional treatment of periodontal defects. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.