An amorphous calcium phosphate nanocomposite for storing and sustained release of IgY protein with antibacterial activity

Abstract

The synthesis of multifunctional biomaterials with antibacterial activity and remineralization effect on demineralized enamel remains a great challenge in the dental research field. Herein, we use chicken immunoglobulin Y (IgY) and amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) nanospheres to prepare a nanocomposite with the multifunctional properties of antibacterial activity and remineralized effect. ACP nanospheres and La-ACP nanospheres with an amorphous structure are prepared by a simple coprecipitation method. Then, the as-prepared ACP nanospheres and La-ACP nanospheres which have high protein adsorption capacity are functionalized by adsorbing IgY molecules. After loading IgY, the ACP nanospheres and La-ACP nanospheres exhibit significant antibacterial activity against Sreptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Through the sustained release of IgY molecules and the mineralization of ACP nanospheres in simulated saliva fluid (SSF), the IgY-loaded ACP nanospheres have potential application in simultaneous inhibition of harmful oral bacteria and remineralization of demineralized tooth enamel. Due to the high biocompatibility, the as-prepared IgY-loaded ACP nanospheres and IgY-loaded La-ACP nanospheres are promising for prophylaxis and treatment of dental caries.