Physical properties and biological response of an apatite modified glass iononer cement

Objectives. To develop a novel glass ionomer cement (GIC) with improved physical properties and in vitro biological response to human pulp cells. Method. Magnesium carbonate apatite (MgCO₃Ap) was synthesized by precipitation method and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier Transformed-Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. The test cement was prepared by adding 2.5% by weight of MgCO₃Ap to Fuji IX GP® (control) and encapsulated mixing with the liquid (P/L=3.6:1). Setting time, compressive strength, fracture toughness, shear bond and microleakage tests were performed according to international standards (ISO 9917-1, ASTM E399-90 and ISO/TS 11405). Inductive Couple Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy and Fluoride Ion Electrode were used to determine calcium, magnesium and fluoride ion release respectively. WST-1 cell proliferation, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALPase) assay, Real Time-PCR and Alizarin red staining were used to evaluate biological responses. Results. The test cement had significantly improved fracture toughness, less microleakage at dentin interface (p