Effect of proanthocyanidin on ultrastructure and mineralization of dentine collagen

Abstract

Objective Proanthocyanidin (PA) is a natural collagen cross-linker that has been used in dentine matrix biomodification for reparative and preventive therapies. This study evaluated the ultrastructure of collagen after its interaction with PA. Furthermore, the mineralization of PA-biomodified collagen matrix was observed. Methods Ten freshly extracted sound human molars were sectioned into 0.5 mm × 1.7 mm × 7 mm beams for ultrastructural evaluation of PA and dentine matrix under Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Specimens for TEM were completely demineralized and divided into three groups according to PA treatments: deionized wate..