Towards development of new antibacterial strategy for dentistry

Project Information

ARGO

Grant agreement ID: 101086441

DOI

10.3030/101086441

EC signature date 4 November 2022

Start date 1 March 2023

End date 28 February 2027

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 915 400,00

Coordinated by

LATVIJAS UNIVERSITATE
Latvia

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ARGO (Towards development of new antibacterial strategy for dentistry)

Reporting period: 2023-03-01 to 2025-02-28

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Dental infections, including root canal infections and post-surgical complications, frequently require antibiotic treatment, contributing to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The ARGO consortium aims to reduce antibiotic dependency by integrating silver (AgNPs) and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) into hydroxyapatite (HA) composites and electrospun nanofiber membranes. These bioactive materials offer localized antimicrobial effects, reducing infection risks and improving treatment outcomes in dentistry and wound healing.
Furthermore, existing dental materials often lack biocompatibility, durability, and regenerative potential. The ARGO project is pioneering nanostructured materials that not only fight infections but also support tissue regeneration, thereby offering a more sustainable, long-term solution for dental care.

By developing next-generation antimicrobial materials, ARGO seeks to:
- Reduce the need for antibiotics in dental care, addressing the global antimicrobial resistance crisis.
- Enhance patient safety and recovery by introducing biocompatible, infection-resistant biomaterials.
- Bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, facilitating the adoption of nanotechnology-based materials in real-world dentistry and wound healing applications.
- Boost international scientific collaboration, ensuring knowledge exchange across multiple disciplines, including materials science, microbiology, and clinical dentistry.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The ARGO project has successfully synthesized and optimized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) for antibacterial applications in dentistry and biomaterials. These nanoparticles were developed with precise control over their size, morphology, and surface properties to enhance their antimicrobial efficiency while ensuring biocompatibility. Multiple AgNP and CuNP formulations were synthesized using green synthesis techniques to minimize toxicity and environmental impact. A controlled silver release mechanism was developed to ensure sustained antibacterial action while avoiding excessive cytotoxicity. Surface modifications, including polydopamine (PDA) coating, were applied to enhance adhesion to dental tissues and improve biocompatibility.

The project conducted extensive in-vitro and in-vivo studies to evaluate the antibacterial properties, cytotoxicity, and biocompatibility of the developed materials. In-vitro studies confirmed the bactericidal effects of AgNP and CuNP-based materials against clinically relevant bacterial strains, including antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Biocompatibility assays demonstrated that the optimized nanoparticle formulations and composite materials support cell viability and adhesion, ensuring their safe use in clinical applications. Animal model studies validated the safety and effectiveness of AgNP and HA-AgNP materials in dental and orthopedic applications, paving the way for future clinical trials.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The ARGO project has made significant advancements beyond the state of the art in the development of antibacterial biomaterials for dentistry and biomedical applications. By integrating silver (AgNPs) and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) into hydroxyapatite (HA) composites and electrospun nanofiber membranes, the project has introduced novel solutions that address the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance in clinical settings. Unlike conventional dental materials, which often lack inherent antibacterial properties, the developed materials offer a controlled antimicrobial effect while maintaining biocompatibility and structural integrity.

One of the key innovations is the precise control over nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization. The project successfully optimized the size, shape, and surface chemistry of AgNPs and CuNPs, ensuring their effective interaction with bacterial membranes while minimizing cytotoxic effects. The incorporation of polydopamine (PDA) coatings further improved biocompatibility and adhesion to dental and bone tissues. Additionally, the controlled release of silver and copper ions from the composites ensures prolonged antimicrobial activity, reducing the need for systemic antibiotics and lowering the risk of bacterial resistance development.

From an intellectual property (IPR) and regulatory perspective, ARGO is positioned to contribute to new standards for nanoparticle-based dental materials. Collaboration with regulatory bodies and standardization organizations will be essential to define safety guidelines and facilitate clinical adoption. Additionally, further work on technology transfer strategies will help bridge the gap between research and commercial implementation, ensuring that these cutting-edge materials reach clinical practice.

The ARGO project’s interdisciplinary and international approach provides a strong foundation for continued innovation, expanding its impact beyond the project’s initial scope. Future directions include the development of multi-functional biomaterials with enhanced regenerative properties and the exploration of additional medical applications beyond dentistry, such as orthopedic implants and soft tissue engineering. By addressing key research, industrial, and regulatory challenges, ARGO paves the way for the next generation of antimicrobial biomaterials with significant clinical and societal benefits.