Understanding the interaction of graphene-based coating on dental implants and peri-implantitis bacteria

Research Project, 2021 – 2024

The goal of this proposal to understand the biological interaction of new generation of dental implant coatings with graphene derivatives which could address the current causes of implant failure. Here our central hypothesis is that coating of graphene derivatives to dental implants with controlled orientation and density could prevent the microbial adhesion and promote bone growth. This is based on the synthesis of my own and work published by others. In the first phase of project (0-24 month), oriented graphene will be grown on implant surface by using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, coatings of other graphene derivative will be done by fabricating the composite matrix with controlled orientation by using magnetic field. In second phase of project (13-48 month), interaction of oriented graphene coatings with microbial and bone cells will be evaluated by using RNA sequencing to examine the interaction and develop clear understanding on antimicrobial behavior and promotion of cell growth and proliferation. This proposal will develop the controlled oriented coatings with graphene derivatives having excellent antimicrobial activity and ability to promote the cell growth and proliferation and investigate to understand the underlying mechanism. Identification of specific mechanism of action will open the door to optimize coatings, enhancement of biological activity and later to design the next generation of smart dental implants.