MICRORNAS IN PERIODONTAL AND ALVEOLAR BONE REGENERATION: BRIDGING MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND CLINICAL DENTISTRY

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that have emerged as key regulators in the
orchestration of bone regeneration, particularly within the dental and periodontal domains. These molecules influence a wide range of cellular processes by modulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In the context of oral health, miRNAs play crucial roles in controlling osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, inflammatory signaling, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling-processes essential for successful periodontal repair, guided bone regeneration, and implant osseointegration.
Materials and Methods: Several miRNAs including miR-21, miR-29b, miR-214, and miR-26a, have been identified
as critical regulators of osteogenic pathways such as Wnt/β catenin, BMP, TGF-β, and P13K/Akt. These miRNAs
either promote or inhibit bone formation, offering novel molecular targets for enhancing regenerative therapies.
Results: The application of miRNAs in dentistry is further advanced by delivery strategies such as exosome-loaded
constructs, lipid nanoparticles and gene-activated scaffolds, which ensure localized and sustained release at defect sites.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of miRNAs in alveolar bone healing and regeneration,
emphasizing their translational potential in clinical dentistry.
Conclusion: Additionally, the integration of miRNA profiling with biomaterial-based therapies may pave the way for
personalized regenerative strategies tailored to individual patient needs. Despite existing challenges related to
specificity and delivery efficiency, miRNA-based approaches hold significant promise in redefining the future of dental regenerative medicine.