Grant: Project Grant

In Canada, more than 10% of all adults 40 years and older suffer from osteoporosis and 80% of them are women. This chronic disease, characterized by diminished bone quantity and compromised osseointegrative ability, is a major cause of concern for reduced implant stabilization and longevity. With a growing and ageing Canadian population, it is essential to develop implant treatment strategies with adequate osseointegration and a clear understanding of bone regeneration mechanisms around dental implants when a systemic compromise such as osteoporosis exists. This proposal aims to improve bone healing around dental implants in an osteoporotic pre-clinical model by exploring a new hybrid 3D-printed titanium scaffold combined with a DNA-based gel capable of increasing bone regrowth. The synergistic effect of DNA as a vector for the delivery of osteoblastic cells and osteogenic agents upon its degradation and a unique porous implant that encourages bone mechanical stability, will enhance osseointegration. This project will accelerate the clinical application of 3D-printed scaffolds for dental, craniofacial and orthopaedic implants.