Control of Inflammation by a Thermosensitive Lovastatin-Loaded Hydrogel

Objectives: Statins have been proposed as interesting pharmacological treatment for periodontal diseases because of their pleiotropic effect. Statins modulate bone metabolism, immuno-inflammatory complex and bacterial clearance. However, their systemic administration is associated to side effects. Therefore, their local administration has been suggested. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential pro-regenerative effects of a thermosensitive gel functionalized by lovastatin on Porphyromonas gingivalis elicited inflammation in vitro and bone regeneration in vivo. Methods: Physical and chemical properties of a thermosensitive lovastatin loaded chitosan gel were evaluated. The anti-inflammatory effect of lovastatin was assessed in vitro by RT-qPCR and Elisa. In vivo, a model of calvarial defect was used to confirm the pro-regenerative effect on periodontal wound healing. Results: In vitro, lovastatin was able to decrease TNF-α secretion in P.gingivalis stimulated cells (p<0.05). In vivo, local application of chitosan gel functionalized with lovastatin improved wound healing at calvarial site in comparison with untreated controls and mice treated with systemic statin administration. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential regenerative effects of local application of a thermosensitive gel functionalized by lovastatin.