Potential of Trilayered Gelatin/Polycaprolactone Nanofibers for Periodontal Regeneration: An In Vitro Study  
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3 Division of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (D.T. );  
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3 Division of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (D.T. );  
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Footnote 1: email: {[PERSON], Zhiwei  
have considerable therapeutic advantages and typically require creating surgical access to the root surface, enabling the comprehensive removal of plaque and calculus on the one hand, and providing conditions for the implantation of various periodontal regeneration materials on the other hand [3]. This treatment approach results in not merely periodontal tissue repair; it also enables the regeneration of periodontium and reconstruction of their original structure and function [4; 5]. For decades, a wide range of treatment methods has been utilized in efforts to improve reattachment in periodontal tissues, with varying degrees of potency [6; 7], but still, only incomplete regeneration of a damaged periodontium is currently achievable in clinical practice [8]. Periodontal regeneration requires timely and spatially coordinated healing processes and involves the regeneration of various hard and soft tissues. Periodontal regeneration therapy has incorporated numerous biological materials, which have had a beneficial influence on tissue formation. Presently, a prevalent strategy involves the utilization of diverse biocompatible membranes to establish a conducive environment between the root surface and the materials, facilitating the desired tissue formation and consequently achieving successfully guided tissue regeneration [9]. The application of three-dimensional scaffolds is an emerging trend in periodontal regeneration with promising perspectives [10; 11]. These scaffolds serve as mechanical support, affect the resident cells, and promote their differentiation into various types. Modifying scaffold properties, like stiffness, chemical composition, and porosity, can modulate these processes [12; 13]. Some scaffolds, particularly volume-stable collagen matrix (VSCM), stimulate soft-tissue remodeling and angiogenesis and demonstrate a promising potential for periodontal regeneration [14; 15]. Nevertheless, collagen-based materials have limitations, including relatively high costs, intricate manufacturing processes, limited viscosity, and potential constraints stemming from religious and cultural considerations [16; 17]. Gelatin (GE), a product of collagen hydrolysis, retains its biocompatibility while reducing immunogenicity and is considered a favored resource in the medical field. Due to a lower molecular weight, GE is easier to manipulate using methods like electrospinning. Still, GE also has the drawback of inadequate mechanical properties [18; 19]. The mechanical properties of GE might be improved by combining it with synthetic polymers, such as polycaprolactone (PCL), which not only possess outstanding mechanical properties and an extremely high elastic modulus but also offer commendable biocompatibility [20]. Recently, a prototype combining GE and PCL (GPP) showcased suitable biocompatibility, elasticity, and capability of maintaining structural integrity in an aqueous environment, significantly enhancing wound healing in an animal study, making it a promising material for tissue regeneration [21; 22; 23]. Previous studies in vitro demonstrated that GPP electrospun nanofibers positively affect the regenerative potential of gingival cells and have great potential for periodontal soft-tissue regeneration [21; 24]. However, the potential of this material to regenerate complex periodontal structures has yet to be investigated.