Investigating the dual role of nanoclay as an antibacterial agent and a scaffold in dental pulp regeneration for the treatment of dental caries

This PhD will explore the use of Laponite nanoclay hydrogels as both an antibacterial agent and a regenerative scaffold for treating pulpitis caused by dental caries or trauma. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) can differentiate into odontoblasts to regenerate vital pulp tissue, offering an alternative to root canal therapy, which leaves teeth brittle and vulnerable to fracture. By combining the antimicrobial effects of lithium (a Laponite component) with the regenerative potential of G-CSF-induced DPSCs, this project aims to deliver a dual-action solution for dental pulp repair.

Why It Matters

• Global Health Need: Dental caries affects over 2.5 billion people worldwide each year.
• Dual Therapeutic Action: Simultaneously combats infection and promotes tissue regeneration.
• Clinical Relevance: Provides a less invasive, biologically driven alternative to conventional root canal treatment.

Key Objectives

1. Develop an ex-vivo pulpitis model to test nanoclay hydrogel scaffolds.
2. Assess antimicrobial efficacy against caries-associated pathogens.
3. Evaluate DPSC viability, differentiation, and pulp-like tissue formation within the scaffolds.

Why Choose a PhD at Dundee?

• Innovative Focus: Contribute to cutting-edge biomaterials research in dental medicine.
• Expert Mentorship: Learn from specialists in stem cell biology, biomaterials, and tissue regeneration.
• Impactful Research: Address a widespread global health challenge with translational potential.
• Collaborative Environment: Access cross-disciplinary expertise across dentistry, biomedical science, and engineering.

Diversity statement

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.