Electrochemical Analysis of Nano- and Micro-Sized Pore Formed Ti-6Al-4V Alloys in Solution Containing Ca, P, Mn, and Si Ions via Plasma Eletrolytic Oxidation for Bio-Implant Materials

The purpose of this study was to investigate electrochemical analysis of nano- and micro-sized pore formed Ti-6Al-4V alloys in solution containing Ca, P, Mn and Si ions via plasma eletrolytic oxidation for bio-implant materials. The coatings were produced on Ti-6Al-4V alloy for dental implant using the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) method in electrolytes with the various concentration of 0, 5, and 20% Mn and Si, respectively. Electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization and AC impedance behaviors were carried out in 0.9% NaCl solution at 36.5 ± 1 °C using potentiostat (Potentiostat, EG&G, 362) and electrochemical impedance spectroscope (EIS, EG&G, 1025). The potentiodynamic polarization test with a scan rate of 1.667 mV s^-1 was carried out from -1500 mV to 2000 mV. The frequency range used for EIS was 10²-10⁵ Hz. The amplitude of AC signal was 10 mV and 5 points per decade was used. From the potentiodynamic polarization test, PEO treated alloy in electrolyte containing Ca, P, Mn, and Si show a lower corrosion potential than that on the bulk surface. In the case of Mn and Si doped surface, the corrosion resistance increase compared to non-doped surface with Mn and Si elements, and the current density was lower than that of the bulk surface. From the AC impedance test, in the case of Mn and Si doped surface, polarization resistance values were higher than other specimens, and nano- and micro-sized pores were covered with corrosion product consisted Mn and Si elements.

Nano/Micro-Sized Morphologies of Hydroxyapatite Coatings Containing Mn and Si on an Oxidized Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Surface for Dental Implants

To improve the surface characteristics of Ti-6Al-4V dental implants and the binding between the bone and implant surface, biocompatible oxide films were formed by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). The PEO treatment was performed using electrolyte solutions containing Ca (calcium acetate monohydrate), P(calcium glycerophosphate), Mn (manganese(II) acetate tetrahydrate), and Si (sodium metasilicate nonahydrate), which are the major constituents of bone, for 3 min at 280 V. The morphology and crystalline phase of the PEO-treated surfaces were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. All the obtained PEO-treated samples exhibited a morphology comprising porous structures. Oval and irregular pore structures were observed as the Mn content increased. As the Si content increased, the areas occupied by the pores increased. When both, Si and Mn were used for the PEO treatment, the number of nano- to micro-sized pores gradually decreased with the increasing ratios of the constituents.

Evaluation of antibacterial activity against Candida albicans according to the dosage of various denture cleansers

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to compare the antibacterial activity of currently purchasable denture cleansers against Candida albicans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study used tablet-type denture cleansers, Polident®, Coolingdent® and Fittydent®, along with liquid denture cleansers, Hexamedine®, Listerine® and Apple vinegar®. The antibacterial activities of denture cleansers were evaluated based on the number of C. albicans and concentrations of the denture cleansers.

RESULTS

In the 0.5 × 10⁶ cfu/ml culture medium, the C. albicans' death rate of Polident® was significantly lower than those of Fittydent®, Hexamedine®, Listerine®, and Apple vinegar®(P<.05). In the 0.5 × 10⁷ cfu/, the C. albicans' death rates of Polident® and Coolingdent® were significantly lower than those of Fittydent®, Hexamedine®, Listerine® and Apple vinegar®(P<.05). The C. albicans' death rates of Polident® and Coolingdent® were significantly decreased at 0.02 g and 0.01 g. The C. albicans' death rate of Fittydent® was significantly decreased at 0.005 g (P<.05). The C. albicans' death rate of Hexamedine® was significantly decreased at 1/16 dilution. The C. albicans' death rate of Listerine® was decreased at 1/8 dilution, and the antibacterial activity of Apple vinegar® was decreased at 1/4 dilution (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

As the number of C. albicans increased, the antibacterial activities of the denture cleansers decrease. In the tablet-type denture cleanser, all denture cleansers showed 100% C. albicans' death rate when used at a dose of 1 tablet. One denture cleanser showed the same antibacterial effect with only 1/3 of a tablet. In the liquid type denture cleanser, the level of dilution required was different for each denture cleanser.

The effects of surface grinding and polishing on the phase transformation and flexural strength of zirconia

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of surface grinding and polishing procedures using high speed zirconia diamond burs with different grit sizes on the phase transformation and flexural strength of zirconia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty disc shape specimens (15 × 1.25 mm) with a cylindrical projection in the center of each disc (1 × 3 mm) were fabricated with 3Y-TZP (Prettau, Zirkonzahn, Italy). The specimens were divided into 4 groups (n=10) according to the grinding and polishing procedures: Control group - grinding (coarse-grit diamond bur), Group 1 - grinding (coarse-grit diamond bur) + polishing, Group 2 - grinding (fine-grit diamond bur) + polishing, and Group 3 - grinding (fine grit diamond bur). Each specimen was analyzed by 3D-OM, XRD analysis, and biaxial flexural strength test.

RESULTS

Based on the surface morphology by 3D-OM images, polished specimens showed smoother surface and lower roughness value (Ra). In the result of XRD analysis, partial phase transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic zirconia occurred in all groups. Control group, ground with a coarse grit diamond bur, showed more t→m phase transformation and lower flexural strength than Groups 1 and 2 significantly.

CONCLUSION

The flexural strength in all specimens after grinding and polishing showed over 500 MPa, and those were clinically acceptable. However, grinding with a coarse grit diamond bur without polishing induced the phase transformation and low strength. Therefore, surface polishing is required for the occlusal adjustment using a high speed zirconia diamond bur to reduce the phase transformation and to prevent the decrease of flexural strength of zirconia.

Hydroxyapatite Coatings Containing Mn and Si on the Oxidized Ti-6Al-4V Alloy for Dental Applications

The purpose of this study was to investigate hydroxyapatite coatings containing Mn and Si on the oxidized Ti-6Al-4V alloy for dental applications. Dental implant fixture and Ti-6Al-4V ELI disk were used as substrates for plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatment. PEO treatment was performed at 280 V for 3 min in various solutions. The surface morphologies of the specimens after PEO treatment were observed with a field-emission scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometer, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The breakdown potential for pore formation depended on the added ions in electrolytes. Rough surface with micro-pores was formed after plasma discharge in the electrolytes containing Si and Mn ions. The surface morphologies of implant fixtures were covered with manganese-silicon compounds, as Mn concentration increased. From the XRD analysis, anatase peaks decreased, as Mn and Si contents increased. From the results of FT-IR analysis, Si-HA and Mn-HA was formed on the implant surface.

Contour of lingual surface in lower complete denture formed by polished surface impression

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyze the shapes of lingual polished surfaces in lower complete dentures formed by polished surface impressions and to provide reference data for use when manufacturing edentulous trays and lower complete dentures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-six patients with mandibular edentulism were studied. After lower wax dentures were fabricated, wax was removed from the lingual side of the wax denture and a lingual polished surface impression was obtained with tissue conditioner. The definitive denture was scanned with a three-dimensional scanner, and scanned images were obtained. At the cross-sections of the lingual frenum, lateral incisors, first premolars, first molars, and anterior border of the retromolar pads, three points were marked and eight measurements were taken. The Kruskal-Wallis test and a post hoc analysis with the Mann-Whitney test were performed.

RESULTS

Each patient showed similar values for the same areas on the left and right sides without a statistically significant difference. The height of the contour of the lingual polished surface at the lingual frenum was halfway between the occlusal plane and lingual border, it moved gradually in a downward direction. The angle from the occlusal plane to the height of the contour of the lingual polished surface was increased as it progressed from the lingual frenum towards the retromolar pads.

CONCLUSION

The shape of the mandibular lingual polished surface was convex at the lingual frenum, lateral incisors and gradually flattened towards the first molars and retromolar pads.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract for mouthwash and denture cleaning solution

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the antimicrobial, antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract for assessing whether Dendropanax morbifera Léveille can be used for the development of natural mouthwash and denture cleaning solution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract was obtained from branches of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille. The solvent fractions were acquired by fractionating Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform and butanol solvent. Paper disc test was used to evaluate the antimicrobial and antifungal activity of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract and solvent fractions against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. The analysis of antioxidant activity was carried out through DPPH radical scavenging assay. The cytotoxicity of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract was analyzed through MTT assay using normal human oral keratinocytes.

RESULTS

Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract showed antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and especially Candida albicans. The solvent fractions of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille showed strong antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans in n-hexane and butanol solvent fraction, respectively. Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract also showed outstanding antioxidant activity. Butanol, ethyl acetate, and chloroform solvent fraction of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille tended to have increased antioxidant activity as the concentration increased. Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract showed high cell survival rate in cytotoxicity test.

CONCLUSION

Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract turned out to have antimicrobial, antioxidant activity and cytophilicity. Based on these results, it is expected that Dendropanax morbifera Léveille is applicable as an ingredient for natural mouthwash and denture cleanser.

Effect of different grinding burs on the physical properties of zirconia

PURPOSE

Grinding with less stress on 3Y-TZP through proper selection of methods and instruments can lead to a long-term success of prosthesis. The purpose of this study was to compare the phase transformation and physical properties after zirconia surface grinding with 3 different grinding burs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty disc-shaped zirconia specimens were fabricated. Each Ten specimens were ground with AllCeramic SuperMax (NTI, Kahla, Germany), Dura-Green DIA (Shofu Inc., Kyoto, Japan), and Dura-Green (Shofu Inc., Kyoto, Japan). Ten specimens were not ground and used as a control group. After the specimen grinding, XRD analysis, surface roughness test, FE-SEM imaging, and biaxial flexural strength test were performed.

RESULTS

After surface grinding, small amount of monoclinic phase in all experimental groups was observed. The phase change was higher in specimens, which were ground with Dura-Green DIA and AllCeramic SuperMax burs. The roughness of surfaces increased in specimens, which were ground with Dura-Green DIA and AllCeramic SuperMax burs than control groups and ground with Dura-Green. All experimental groups showed lower flexural strength than control group, but there was no statistically significant difference between control group and ground with Dura-Green DIA and AllCeramic SuperMax burs. The specimens, which were ground with Dura- Green showed the lowest strength.

CONCLUSION

The use of dedicated zirconia-specific grinding burs such as Dura-Green DIA and AllCeramic SuperMax burs decreases the grinding time and did not significantly affect the flexural strength of zirconia, and therefore, they may be recommended. However, a fine polishing process should be accompanied to reduce the surface roughness after grinding.

Clinical problems of computer-guided implant surgery

Background

The utilization of a cone-beam computed tomography (CT)-assisted surgical template allows for predictable results because implant placement plans can be performed in the actual surgery. In order to assess the accuracy of the CT-guided surgery, angular errors and shoulder/apex distance errors were evaluated by data fusion from before and after the placement.

Methods

Computer-guided implant surgery was performed in five patients with 19 implants. In order to analyze differences of the implant fixture body between preoperative planned implant and postoperative placed implant, angular error and distance errors were evaluated.

Results

The mean angular errors between the preoperative planned and postoperative placed implant was 3.84° ± 1.49°; the mean distance errors between the planned and placed implants were 0.45 ± 0.48 mm horizontally and 0.63 ± 0.51 mm vertically at the implant neck and 0.70 ± 0.63 mm horizontally and 0.64 ± 0.57 mm vertically at the implant apex for all 19 implants.

Conclusions

It is important to be able to utilize these methods in actual clinical settings by improving the various problems, including the considerations of patient mouth opening limitations, surgical guide preparation, and fixation.

Color stability, water sorption and cytotoxicity of thermoplastic acrylic resin for non metal clasp denture

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the color stability, water sorption and cytotoxicity of thermoplastic acrylic resin for the non-metal clasp dentures to those of thermoplastic polyamide and conventional heat-polymerized denture base resins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three types of denture base resin, which are conventional heat-polymerized acrylic resin (Paladent 20), thermoplastic polyamide resin (Bio Tone), thermoplastic acrylic resin (Acrytone) were used as materials for this study. One hundred five specimens were fabricated. For the color stability test, specimens were immersed in the coffee and green tee for 1 and 8 weeks. Color change was measured by spectrometer. Water sorption was tested after 1 and 8 weeks immersion in the water. For the test of cytotoxicity, cell viability assay was measured and cell attachment was analyzed by FE-SEM.

RESULTS

All types of denture base resin showed color changes after 1 and 8 weeks immersion. However, there was no significant difference between denture base resins. All specimens showed significant color changes in the coffee than green tee. In water sorption test, thermoplastic acrylic resin showed lower values than conventional heat-polymerized acrylic resin and thermoplastic polyamide resin. Three types of denture base showed low cytotoxicity in cell viability assay. Thermoplastic acrylic resin showed the similar cell attachment but more stable attachment than conventional heat-polymerized acrylic resin.

CONCLUSION

Thermoplastic acrylic resin for the non-metal clasp denture showed acceptable color stability, water sorption and cytotoxicity. To verify the long stability in the mouth, additional in vitro studies are needed.

Effect of cement washout on loosening of abutment screws and vice versa in screw- and cement- retained implant-supported dental prosthesis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the abutment screw stability of screw- and cement-retained implant-supported dental prosthesis (SCP) after simulated cement washout as well as the stability of SCP cements after complete loosening of abutment screws.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six titanium CAD/CAM-made implant prostheses were fabricated on two implants placed in the resin models. Each prosthesis is a two-unit SCP: one screw-retained and the other cemented. After evaluating the passive fit of each prosthesis, all implant prostheses were randomly divided into 3 groups: screwed and cemented SCP (Control), screwed and noncemented SCP (Group 1), unscrewed and cemented SCP (Group 2). Each prosthesis in Control and Group 1 was screwed and/or cemented, and the preloading reverse torque value (RTV) was evaluated. SCP in Group 2 was screwed and cemented, and then unscrewed (RTV=0) after the cement was set. After cyclic loading was applied, the postloading RTV was measured. RTV loss and decementation ratios were calculated for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in RTV loss ratio between Control and Group 1 (P=.16). No decemented prosthesis was found among Control and Group 2.

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of this in vitro study, the stabilities of SCP abutment screws and cement were not significantly changed after simulated cement washout or screw loosening.

Effect of various intraoral repair systems on the shear bond strength of composite resin to zirconia

PURPOSE

This study compared the effect of three intraoral repair systems on the bond strength between composite resin and zirconia core.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty zirconia specimens were divided into three groups according to the repair method: Group I- CoJet™ Repair System (3M ESPE) [chairside silica coating with 30 µm SiO₂ + silanization + adhesive]; Group II- Ceramic Repair System (Ivoclar Vivadent) [etching with 37% phosphoric acid + Zirconia primer + adhesive]; Group III- Signum Zirconia Bond (Heraus) [Signum Zirconia Bond I + Signum Zirconia Bond II]. Composite resin was polymerized on each conditioned specimen. The shear bond strength was tested using a universal testing machine, and fracture sites were examined with FE-SEM. Surface morphology and wettability after surface treatments were examined additionally. The data of bond strengths were statistically analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tamhane post hoc test (α=.05).

RESULTS

Increased surface roughness and the highest wettability value were observed in the CoJet sand treated specimens. The specimens treated with 37% phosphoric acid and Signum Zirconia Bond I did not show any improvement of surface irregularity, and the lowest wettability value were found in 37% phosphoric acid treated specimens. There was no significant difference in the bond strengths between Group I (7.80 ± 0.76 MPa) and III (8.98 ± 1.39 MPa). Group II (3.21 ± 0.78 MPa) showed a significant difference from other groups (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

The use of Intraoral silica coating system and the application of Signum Zirconia Bond are effective for increasing the bond strength of composite resin to zirconia.

Gingival recontouring by provisional implant restoration for optimal emergence profile: report of two cases

PURPOSE

The emergence profile concept of an implant restoration is one of the most important factors for the esthetics and health of peri-implant soft tissue. This paper reports on two cases of gingival recontouring by the fabrication of a provisional implant restoration to produce an optimal emergence profile of a definitive implant restoration.

METHODS

After the second surgery, a preliminary impression was taken to make a soft tissue working cast. A provisional crown was fabricated on the model. The soft tissue around the implant fixture on the model was trimmed with a laboratory scalpel to produce the scalloped gingival form. Light curing composite resin was added to fill the space between the provisional crown base and trimmed gingiva. After 4 to 6 weeks, the final impression was taken to make a definitive implant restoration, where the soft tissue and tooth form were in harmony with the adjacent tooth.

RESULTS

At the first insertion of the provisional restoration, gum bleaching revealed gingival pressure. Four to six weeks after placing the provisional restoration, the gum reformed with harmony between the peri-implant gingiva and adjacent dentition.

CONCLUSIONS

Gingival recontouring with a provisional implant restoration is a non-surgical and non-procedure-sensitive method. The implant restoration with the optimal emergence profile is expected to provide superior esthetic and functional results.

Anthropometric analysis of maxillary anterior buccal bone of Korean adults using cone-beam CT

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the thickness of buccal and palatal alveolar bone and buccal bony curvature below root apex in maxillary anterior teeth of Korean adults using Cone-beam CT images.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 3D image was reconstructed with dicom file obtained through CBCT from 20 - 39 year old Korean subjects (n = 20). The thickness of buccal and palatal plate, root diameter, the buccal bony curvature angle below root apex and the distance from root apex to the deepest point of buccal bony curvature were measured on maxillary anterior teeth area using OnDemand3D program.

RESULTS

Mean thickness of buccal plate 3 mm below CEJ was 0.68 ± 0.29 mm at central incisor, 0.76 ± 0.59 mm at lateral incisor, and 1.07 ± 0.80 mm at canine. Mean thickness of palatal plate 3 mm below CEJ was 1.53 ± 0.55 mm of central incisor, 1.18 ± 0.66 mm of lateral incisor, 1.42 ± 0.77 mm of canine. Bucco-lingual diameter 3 mm below CEJ was 5.13 ± 0.37 mm of central incisor, 4.58 ± 0.46 mm of lateral incisor, and 5.93 ± 0.47 mm of canine. Buccal bony curvature angle below root apex was 134.7 ± 17.5° at central incisor, 151.0 ± 13.9° at lateral incisor, 153.0 ± 9.5° at canine. Distance between root apex and the deepest point of buccal bony curvature of central incisor was 3.67 ± 1.28 mm at central incisor, 3.90 ± 1.51 mm at lateral incisor, and 5.13 ± 1.70 mm at canine.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitation of this study in Korean adults, the thickness of maxillary anterior buccal plate was very thin within 1mm and the thickness of palatal plate was thick, relatively. The buccal bony curvature below root apex of maxillary central incisor was higher than that of lateral incisor and canine and it seems that the buccal bony plate below root apex of central incisor is most curved.

Prognosis of single molar implants: a retrospective study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short- and mid-term prognosis of maxillary and mandibular single molar implants, prosthetic complications, and factors mediating the effects seen on them. Eighty-seven patients were enrolled consecutively in this study and 96 implants were placed into a single molar defect site by one oral and maxillofacial surgeon from March 2004 to December 2006. Primary osseointegration failure developed in two implants and delayed implant failure occurred at four implants. The fraction surviving interval was 97% to 100%, and at the last follow-up observation, the cumulative survival rate was 91.1%. All failed implants occurred in second molar sites, and the failure rate, according to implant site, showed a significant difference. Prosthetic complications, such as screw loosening, showed a significant correlation to the mesiodistal cantilever. Furthermore, crestal bone loss 3 years after loading was 0.2 mm on average and a very stable result was obtained. Based on the results, the risk of failure for maxillary and mandibular single molar implants is high and the possibility of developing prosthetic complications during loading is also high. Therefore, to minimize the cantilever, implants must be placed precisely and followed carefully and maintained for a long period of time.

Abrasion of abutment screw coated with TiN

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Screw loosening has been a common complication and still reported frequently.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate abrasion of the implant fixture and TiN coated abutment screw after repeated delivery and removal with universal measuring microscope.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Implant systems used for this study were Osstem and 3i. Seven pairs of implant fixtures, abutments and abutment screws for each system were selected and all the fixtures were perpendicularly mounted in liquid unsaturated polyesther with dental surveyor. After 20 times of repeated closing and opening test, the evaluation for the change of inner surface of implant and TiN-coated abutment screw, and weight loss were measured. Mann-Whitney test with SPSS statistical software for Window was applied to analyze the measurement of weight loss.

RESULTS

TiN-coated abutment screws of Osstem and 3i showed lesser loss of weight than non-coated those of Osstem and 3i (P < .05, Mann-Whitney test).

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, TiN coating of abutment screw showed better resistance to abrasion than titanium abutment screw. It was concluded that TiN coating of abutment screw would reduce the loss of preload with good abrasion resistance and low coefficient of friction, and help to maintain screw joint stability.

Sinking and fit of abutment of locking taper implant system

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Unlike screw-retention type, fixture-abutment retention in Locking taper connection depends on frictional force so it has possibility of abutment to sink.

PURPOSE

In this study, Bicon® Implant System, one of the conical internal connection implant system, was used with applying loading force to the abutments connected to the fixture. Then the amount of sinking was measured.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

10 Bicon® implant fixtures were used. First, the abutment was connected to the fixture with finger force. Then it was tapped with a mallet for 3 times and loads of 20 kg corresponding to masticatory force using loading application instrument were applied successively. The abutment state, slightly connected to the fixture without pressure was considered as a reference length, and every new abutment length was measured after each load's step was added. The amount of abutment sinking (mm) was gained by subtracting the length of abutment-fixture under each loading condition from reference length.

RESULTS

It was evident, that the amount of abutment sinking in Bicon® Implant System increased as loads were added. When loads of 20 kg were applied more than 5 - 7 times, sinking stopped at 0.45 ± 0.09 mm.

CONCLUSION

Even though locking taper connection type implant shows good adaption to occlusal force, it has potential for abutment sinking as loads are given. When locking taper connection type implant is used, satisfactory loads are recommended for precise abutment location.

Development of a sustained-release recombinant human growth hormone formulation

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy for short stature must be administered as a daily injection because of its poor bioavailability and short half-life. In the present study, a sustained-release formulation of rhGH (SR-rhGH), DA-3003, was prepared using double emulsion solvent evaporation with poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), zinc oxide and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HPCD) as the release modulator, stabilizer, and aggregation-prevention agent, respectively. After a single administration of DA-3003, the elevated concentration of rhGH in plasma was sustained for 14 days in rats and 28 days in monkeys. The plasma concentration of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), which are pharmacodynamic markers of rhGH administration, increased and remained elevated for approximately 28 days in monkeys. Monkeys administered DA-3003 did not develop antibodies to hGH, indicating safety of the SR-rhGH formulation comparable to that observed with daily rhGH injections (Growtropin II). There were no significant differences in efficacy between Growtropin II (daily dose of 5 microg/animal for 14 days) and DA-3003 (weekly dose of 35 microg/animal for 14 days with a dosing interval of a week) in hypophysectomized rats, as assessed by changes in body weight and the width of the tibial growth plate. These results show that a sustained-release rhGH formulation, DA-3003, has the potential to be used safely and efficaciously in a weekly dosing regimen.

Control of mitochondrial redox balance and cellular defense against oxidative damage by mitochondrial NADP+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase

Mitochondria are the major organelles that produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the main target of ROS-induced damage as observed in various pathological states including aging. Production of NADPH required for the regeneration of glutathione in the mitochondria is critical for scavenging mitochondrial ROS through glutathione reductase and peroxidase systems. We investigated the role of mitochondrial NADP(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDPm) in controlling the mitochondrial redox balance and subsequent cellular defense against oxidative damage. We demonstrate in this report that IDPm is induced by ROS and that decreased expression of IDPm markedly elevates the ROS generation, DNA fragmentation, lipid peroxidation, and concurrent mitochondrial damage with a significant reduction in ATP level. Conversely, overproduction of IDPm protein efficiently protected the cells from ROS-induced damage. The protective role of IDPm against oxidative damage may be attributed to increased levels of a reducing equivalent, NADPH, needed for regeneration of glutathione in the mitochondria. Our results strongly indicate that IDPm is a major NADPH producer in the mitochondria and thus plays a key role in cellular defense against oxidative stress-induced damage.