Rational design of multifunctional hydrogels targeting the microenvironment of diabetic periodontitis

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease and is the primary contributor to adult tooth loss. Diabetes exacerbates periodontitis, accelerates periodontal bone resorption. Thus, effectively managing periodontitis in individuals with diabetes is a long-standing challenge. This review introduces the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontitis, and analyzes the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontitis. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the four pathological microenvironments influenced by diabetic periodontitis: high glucose microenvironment, bacterial infection microenvironment, inflammatory microenvironment, and bone loss microenvironment. The hydrogel design strategies and latest research development tailored to the four microenvironments of diabetic periodontitis are mainly focused on. Finally, the challenges and potential solutions in the treatment of diabetic periodontitis are discussed. We believe this review will be helpful for researchers seeking novel avenues in the treatment of diabetic periodontitis.