An Electrospun Heparin Modified Nanofiber Membrane Carrying Multiple Growth Factors for Dental Pulp Regeneration

Introduction and aims To develop a multifunctional nanofiber membrane carrying angiogenic, dentinogenic, and neurogenic growth factors for dental pulp regeneration. Methods Electrospun gelatin/polycaprolactone (GEL/PCL) nanofiber membranes were modified with heparin (H-GEL/PCL) and loaded with VEGF, BMP-2, and NGF. The physicochemical properties and growth factor release behaviour of the membranes were systematically characterized. Their bioactivity was evaluated by assessing cell viability, proliferation, migration, and differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells in vitro, and a subcutaneous semiorthotopic transplantation model was established to verify the pulp-like tissue regeneration potential in vivo. Results The H-GEL/PCL membranes exhibited uniform nanofiber morphology, favourable mechanical and hydrophilic properties, sustained degradation, and controlled growth factor release. H-GEL/PCL membranes loaded with VEGF, BMP-2, and NGF enhanced angiogenic, odontogenic, and neurogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells in vitro and facilitated vascular and neural ingrowth of dental pulp-like tissue in vivo. Conclusions The H-GEL/PCL membrane carrying angiogenic, dentinogenic, and neurogenic growth factors effectively promotes angiogenesis and neurogenesis in the regenerated dental pulp-like tissue. Clinical relevance This multifunctional membrane offers a promising strategy for regenerating vascularized and innervated dental pulp-like tissues, with potential application for regenerative endodontic therapy.