Marioara Moldovan
Marioara Moldovan, Ph.D., Research Professor, Director of “Raluca Ripan” Chemistry Research Institute, Babes Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Her research activity was focused on the study and development of the new technologies for synthesis and obtaining of nanostructured powders and other precursors for the composite materials (glasses, based monomer organic matrix), hydrogels with active agents (enzymes, peptides, graphitic carbon nitride) and of the experimental biomaterials with different application in dentistry and medicine. Dr. Marioara's research also encompasses lecturing and practical training for undergraduate, master's, and PhD students.
The major scientific interests focus on the development of technologies for producing micro- and nanofillers, biomaterials, bioadhesives, and hydrogels for medical applications. These include: a) dental composites for restorative treatments; b) sealants for the prophylaxis of caries in children; c) synthesis and characterization of inorganic materials (e.g., micro- and nanocrystalline powders, bioglasses) as fillers for polymeric composites; d) synthesis of nanofillers by the sol-gel method and stabilization of nanoparticles; e) surface treatment of inorganic particles with coupling agents to improve compatibility with the organic matrix of composites; f) development of biocompatible materials for dental implants; g) biomaterials for skull bone replacement; h) biomaterials for meninges replacement; i) composites capable of forming thin films with adhesive properties, cured under UV or visible light; k) synthesis and formulation of new classes of emerging materials for the treatment of oral tissue disorders using photodynamic therapy.
Her work focuses primarily on the synthesis and characterization of micro- and nanofillers, bioglasses, ceramics, and biodegradable polymers (such as polylactic acid) used in bioadhesivesand composite materials, as well as on studying the influence of the inorganic matrix on the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of the hardened adhesives and composite materials.
Abstract
Engineering Hydrogels for Oral Healthcare: Design and Progress
Marioara Moldovan1, Codruța Saroși1
1 Babeș Bolyai University, “Raluca Ripan” Institute of Research in Chemistry, Fântânele 30, Cluj, Romania, mmarioara2004@yahoo.com; codruta.sarosi@gmail.com
Introduction
Hydrogels have attracted significant attention in recent years as promising biomaterials for advancing oral healthcare. Their soft, water-rich structure closely mimics natural tissues, making them ideal candidates for a range of dental and oral applications. Due to their tunable composition, porosity, and responsiveness, hydrogels offer unique advantages for controlled drug delivery, wound healing, antimicrobial protection, and tissue regeneration within the complex environment of the oral cavity.
Experimental
Recent progress in materials science and bioengineering has led to the development of “smart” hydrogels capable of responding to environmental stimuli such as pH, temperature, and enzymatic activity. These dynamic systems enable localized and sustained release of therapeutic agents directly at the site of infection or injury. Our research focuses on advances in polymer chemistry and nanotechnology that have facilitated the incorporation of graphene nanoparticles, bioactive peptides, and natural polymers into hydrogel matrices. The synthesized multifunctional hydrogels are currently being explored for applications in periodontal regeneration, mucosal wound healing, dental implant coatings, and caries prevention. The materials have been characterized comprehensively from both physical and chemical perspectives to assess their structure–property relationships.
Results and Discussion
The engineered hydrogels represent a transformative approach to modern oral healthcare. Their adjustable physical and biological properties make them powerful platforms for next-generation therapies capable of delivering drugs, promoting tissue regeneration, and preventing infections in a targeted and patient-friendly manner. Ongoing innovations in hydrogel design are expected to play a central role in developing personalized and minimally invasive treatments for various oral conditions. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to fully evaluate the clinical performance, bioactivity, and long-term stability of the peptide- and nanoparticle-enhanced hydrogel systems.
Conclusion
Despite significant progress, several challenges remain before these materials can be fully integrated into clinical practice. Key issues include improving long-term mechanical stability, achieving controlled degradation rates, and ensuring compatibility with the dynamic oral microbiome.
Acknowledgments. This work was supported by a grant of the Ministry of Research, Inovation and Digitization, CNCS-UEFISCDI, project number PN-IV-P1-PCE-2023-1482, within PNCDI IV.
References.
[1]. Sarosi, C.; Muntean, A.; Cuc, S.; Petean, I.; Balint, S.; Moldovan, M.; Mohan, A.G. In Vitro Investigation of Novel Peptide Hydrogels for Enamel Remineralization. Gels 2025, 11, 11.
[2]. Purcea Lopes, P.M.; Moldovan, D.; Fechete, R.; Mare, L.; Barbu-Tudoran, L.; Sechel, N.; Popescu, V. Characterization of a Graphene Oxide-Reinforced Whey Hydrogel as an Eco-Friendly Absorbent for Food Packaging. Gels 2023, 9, 298
BioReMed 2025
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