Effect of cross-linking agents on the durability of the adhesive interface Effect of cross-linking agents on the durability of the adhesive interface

Abstract

Metalloproteases are endogenous collagenolytic enzymes, capable of degrading the collagen fibrils present in the dentin, producing adhesive interface failures. Cross-linking agents has been proposed to reduce this degradation. The aim of this literature review was to analyze the action of different cross-linking agents on MMPs. The search was conducted in the PubMed database. The final sample consisted of 40 studies published between 2018 and 2010. Current studies have shown cross-linking agents (cabordiimide, glutaraldehyde, proanthocyanidin, riboflavin / UV-A and chitosan) present some advantages as nonspecificity to type of MMPs, collagen fiber’s toughness development and prevent bonding to the cleavage site of the enzyme. For this reason, it is necessary to know the action of the available cross-linking agents. It was observed that  Cabordiimide, riboflavin / UV-A, glutaraldehyde, proanthocyanidin and chitosan presented positive results in reducing degradation of the adhesive interface. Carbodiimide and riboflavin / UV-A are non-cytotoxic, unlike glutaraldehyde. Proanthocyanidin incorporated into the adhesive interferes with the polymerization of the adhesive monomers. Chitosan is able to reinforce collagen fibrils. Thus, it was possible to know more about the action of the available cross-linking agents.  However, there is a need for more research on these agents.