Curcumin-loaded Pickering emulsions with sustained antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity promote immunomodulation and bone regeneration in periodontitis

In a periodontitis model, PE-CUR treatment markedly attenuates periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss, indicating protection against tissue destruction. Mechanistically, PE-CUR promotes macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype characterized by reduced M1-associated markers and enhanced M2-associated markers. This shift is accompanied by upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines and suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators, likely through modulation of the MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Additionally, PE-CUR inhibits osteoclast formation while promoting osteoblast activation and differentiation, thereby preserving alveolar bone and facilitating periodontal tissue regeneration. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of PE-CUR as an innovative and comprehensive therapeutic strategy for periodontitis-one that concurrently addresses infection, inflammation, and tissue regeneration. This multi-functional approach holds promise as a novel periodontitis treatment and warrants further clinical investigation.