Histological evaluation following treatment of recession-type defects with coronally advanced flap and a novel human recombinant amelogenin

ObjectivesTo histologically evaluate the effects of a novel human recombinant amelogenin (rAmelX) on periodontal wound healing / regeneration in recession-type defects.Materials and methodsA total of 17 gingival recession-type defects were surgically created in the maxilla of three minipigs. The defects were randomly treated with a coronally advanced flap (CAF) and either rAmelX (test), or a CAF and placebo (control). At three months following reconstructive surgery, the animals were euthanized, and the healing outcomes histologically evaluated.ResultsThe test group yielded statistically significantly (p = 0.047) greater formation of cementum with inserting collagen fibers compared with the control group (i.e., 4.38 mm & PLUSMN; 0.36 mm vs. 3.48 mm & PLUSMN; 1.13 mm). Bone formation measured 2.15 mm & PLUSMN; 0.8 mm in the test group and 2.24 mm & PLUSMN; 1.23 mm in the control group, respectively, without a statistically significant difference (p = 0.94).ConclusionsThe present data have provided for the first-time evidence for the potential of rAmelX to promote regeneration of periodontal ligament and root cementum in recession-type defects, thus warranting further preclinical and clinical testing.