Researchers in Brazil have developed a new biomaterial combining jackfruit latex, pomegranate peel extract and simvastatin to treat periodontitis. The material aims to fight infection while promoting bone and tissue regeneration. Early lab tests show promising results for direct application at affected sites.
The biomaterial was created by scientists at the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo in Sorocaba. Professor Eliana Aparecida de Rezende Duek coordinated the project, which received support from FAPESP and appeared in the journal Polymer Bulletin.
The team mixed jackfruit latex for its adhesive qualities with pomegranate peel for antimicrobial effects and simvastatin for anti-inflammatory and bone-stimulating properties. In vitro tests using human stem cells found that concentrations of 0.3 percent, 0.6 percent and 1.2 percent encouraged bone-forming activity within 14 days, with stronger effects after 21 days.
Duek noted the results were encouraging but stressed that further studies are required to assess efficacy and safety before clinical use. The approach could reduce reliance on systemic antibiotics by delivering treatment locally.
