Figure 1. CPNloaded hydrogel system for periodontal treatment. (a) Illustration of CPN hydrogel application to inflamed periodontal tissue. (b) Schematic representation of the hydrogel network structure incorporating chitosan, boric acid, and CBD–PLGA nanospheres. (c) Experimental photograph showing the actual fabricated CPN hydrogel.

Researchers from Jeonbuk National University have developed a novel cannabidiol (CBD) delivery system that may significantly improve treatment outcomes for inflammatory oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

While CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, its poor solubility and limited ability to penetrate mucosal tissue have restricted its effectiveness in oral applications. To address this, researchers engineered a chitosan-based mucoadhesive hydrogel containing CBD-loaded PLGA nanospheres, referred to as a CPN hydrogel, designed specifically for prolonged contact with oral tissue and controlled drug release.

Laboratory analysis showed the hydrogel had improved structural stability, stronger adhesion to mucosal surfaces, and favorable viscoelastic properties compared to control formulations. Testing revealed that over 90% of the CBD content was steadily released over a 96-hour period. Permeability tests demonstrated a significant increase in CBD absorption across mucosal tissue, reaching 124.1 μg/cm² after 72 hours.

The formulation’s adhesive capacity proved notable, remaining attached to mucosal surfaces for an average of 1,137 seconds, far exceeding control groups. Antioxidant testing showed strong free-radical scavenging activity, while antibacterial experiments found the hydrogel suppressed more than 99% of Staphylococcus aureus growth.

Further in vitro testing demonstrated enhanced wound healing effects and a marked reduction in inflammatory markers, specifically the cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, which are closely associated with periodontal inflammation.

Researchers conclude that this CBD-loaded mucoadhesive hydrogel offers a promising targeted approach for managing oral inflammatory conditions by combining sustained drug release, improved mucosal retention, and potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.