Bio-Enhanced NGV/QC−Zn@ZSM-5 Zeolite Nanoplatform for Stabilizing the Dentin-Adhesive Interface

Bio-enhanced zeolite nanoplatform (NQZ@ZSM-5) engineered for dentin interfaces. • Synergistic antibacterial, anti-degradation, and remineralization at biointerfaces. • Aged bond strength increases ~2.03× versus a commercial adhesive. • Excellent biocompatibility with preserved interfacial adhesion performance. Dentin adhesives are essential for minimally invasive restorative dentistry. However, the long-term stability of the resin−dentin interface remains limited due to collagen degradation and bacterial erosion. Achieving synergistic antibacterial activity, collagen cross-linking, and remineralization at this interface is therefore crucial for durable dentin bonding. Quercetin (QC), a natural polyphenol, possesses both antibacterial activity and collagen cross-linking capability. These properties can be further enhanced through coordination with metal ions to form metal–phenolic networks (MPNs). In this study, we used the NGV peptide, derived from bone sialoprotein (BSP, a non-collagenous protein), as a remineralization motif. We combined NGV with an MPN to construct a bio-enhanced nanoplatform (NGV/QC−Zn@ZSM-5) for dentin adhesives. The nanoplatform was prepared by incorporating Zn 2+ into ZSM 5 zeolites, followed by surface coating with a QC−Zn MPN and subsequent functionalization with NGV. ZSM-5 serves as a multifunctional carrier due to its high ion-exchange capacity, tunable surface chemistry, and ability to enable controlled Zn 2+ release. The resulting system is designed to stabilize collagen, inhibit bacterial biofilm formation, and promote dentin remineralization. This integrated strategy strengthens the resin−dentin interface against both enzymatic and bacterial degradation, thereby improving bonding durability. Notably, after aging, the modified adhesive exhibited a bond strength approximately 2.03-fold higher than that of the commercial control. Overall, these results highlight the strong potential of this nanoplatform to enhance the longevity and clinical performance of dental bonding restorations.