Cytotoxicity Evaluation of ZnO NPs Based Resin Nanocomposite Using MTT Assay: A Sustainable Approach for Restorative Dentistry

Shravani Wadekar, Manish Hate, Ramesh Chaughule

Abstract: Oral caries affects individuals across all age groups and, if untreated, can lead to tooth loss, infections, and systemic complications, emphasizing the need for timely dental care and proper oral hygiene. As a result, there is a growing demand for effective, durable, and sustainable dental solutions. Nanotechnology, with its exceptional physical, chemical, and mechanical properties, shows immense promise in dentistry. This study involved the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using plant extracts, which were incorporated into resin matrices to create resin bio-nanocomposites. Traditional Bis-GMA resin was replaced with GMA and UDMA polymers, cured using a light-curing unit. The resulting composites were analysed using FTIR-ATR and Raman spectroscopy to explore bonding interactions between polymers and nanoparticles. Mechanical properties were assessed through tensile, flexural, and compressive strength tests. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using a dose-dependent MTT assay on NIH-3T3 fibroblast cell lines. ZnO NPs-based composites were compared with TiO? NPs, their combination, and commercial Spectrum samples. Results revealed that ZnO NPs composites had superior mechanical performance, particularly at higher concentrations, and lower cytotoxicity at reduced doses. These findings support their potential as functional and aesthetically suitable materials for restorative dentistry applications.

Keywords: ZnO NPs, Resin nanocomposites, MTT assay, NIH-3T3 Fibroblast cell-line, Cytotoxicity

How to Cite?: Shravani Wadekar, Manish Hate, Ramesh Chaughule, "Cytotoxicity Evaluation of ZnO NPs Based Resin Nanocomposite Using MTT Assay: A Sustainable Approach for Restorative Dentistry", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1115-1125, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25716181218, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25716181218