Characterized by multiple complex mutations, including activation by oncogenes and inhibition by tumor suppressors, cancer is one of the leading causes of death. Application of CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology in cancer research has aroused great interest, promoting the exploration of the molecular mechanism of cancer progression and development of precise therapy. CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology provides a solid basis for identifying driver and passenger mutations in cancer genomes, which is of great value in genetic screening and for developing cancer models and treatments. This article reviews the current applications of CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology in various cancer studies, the challenges faced, and the existing solutions, highlighting the potential of this technology for cancer treatment.

On a global note, oral health plays a critical role in improving the overall human health. In this vein, dental-related issues with dentin exposure often facilitate the risk of developing various oral-related diseases in gums and teeth. Several oral-based ailments include gums-associated (gingivitis or periodontitis), tooth-based (dental caries, root infection, enamel erosion, and edentulous or total tooth loss), as well as miscellaneous diseases in the buccal or oral cavity (bad breath, mouth sores, and oral cancer). Although established conventional treatment modalities have been available to improve oral health, these therapeutic options suffer from several limitations, such as fail to eradicate bacterial biofilms, deprived regeneration of dental pulp cells, and poor remineralization of teeth, resulting in dental emergencies. To this end, the advent of nanotechnology has resulted in the development of various innovative nanoarchitectured composites from diverse sources. This review presents a comprehensive overview of different nanoarchitectured composites for improving overall oral health. Initially, we emphasize various oral-related diseases, providing detailed pathological circumstances and their effects on human health along with deficiencies of the conventional therapeutic modalities. Further, the importance of various nanostructured components is emphasized, highlighting their predominant actions in solving crucial dental issues, such as anti-bacterial, remineralization, and tissue regeneration abilities. In addition to an emphasis on the synthesis of different nanostructures, various nano-therapeutic solutions from diverse sources are discussed, including natural (plant, animal, and marine)-based components and other synthetic (organic- and inorganic-) architectures, as well as their composites for improving oral health. Finally, we summarize the article with an interesting outlook on overcoming the challenges of translating these innovative platforms to clinics.

During fixed orthodontic treatment, white spot lesions are prevalent issues associated with cariogenic bacteria. This study aims to construct an orthodontic adhesive containing nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate-polydopamine-Ag (NPA) fillers to combat white spot lesions. The NPA fillers were prepared and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The biocompatibility of the fillers was evaluated. A colony counting test evaluated the antibacterial property of the fillers against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). NPA fillers were mixed with orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT) at different weight ratios (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%). The shear bond strength and antibacterial properties were then further investigated. The results showed that NPA was prepared successfully, with good antibacterial properties. The cell survival rate of all groups of fillers was higher than 70%, showing good biocompatibility. Moreover, the shear bond strength of the orthodontic adhesive with 0.2 wt.% NPA fillers was 11.89 ± 1.27 MPa, meeting the minimal clinical bond strength requirements of 7.8 MPa. Furthermore, the orthodontic adhesive resin blocks and the extract displayed good antibacterial properties, with the number of colonies decreasing significantly (p < 0.001). Taken together, we think that an orthodontic adhesive with NPA may have a good application potential for the prevention and treatment of white spot lesions.

A skeletal Class II malocclusion is an anteroposterior discrepancy resulting from a combination of skeletal and dental factors. In adolescent patients, it is possible to leverage their growth potential to address bone deformities and minimise the need for future surgical interventions. In the present case report, a combination treatment approach was adopted which included a functional appliance, fixed appliances, and temporary anchorage support, to treat a 13-year-old Chinese male with a severe skeletal Class II malocclusion. After a treatment duration of 36 months, the patient achieved a favourable occlusion and an improved facial profile. Subsequently, a stable occlusal relationship and balanced facial proportions were maintained during a 2-year retention period.

To evaluate three-dimensional changes in the maxillary sinus (MS) and pharyngeal airway space (PAS) following rapid (RME), slow (SME), and magnetic maxillary expansion (MME) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). This retrospective observational study included 60 patients (35 males, 25 females; mean age 12.83 ± 0.92 years) with transverse maxillary deficiency, allocated equally to RME, SME, and MME groups (n = 20 each). Expansion was carried out according to protocol-specific activation schedules, with appliances retained for three months post-expansion. CBCT scans were obtained at baseline (T1), post-expansion (T2), and after retention (T3). Measurements of MS volume, area, minimum constriction area, and PAS subdivisions (nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx) were analyzed using Dolphin Imaging software. An adjusted p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. All three expansion protocols demonstrated numerical increases in maxillary sinus and pharyngeal airway dimensions during the active expansion phase (T1-T2); however, after adjustment for multiple comparisons, statistically significant changes were limited. Significant within-group increases in maxillary sinus volume were observed only in the slow maxillary expansion group, while no pharyngeal airway parameter showed a statistically significant change after correction. No significant dimensional changes were detected during the retention period (T2-T3). Inter-group comparisons revealed no statistically significant differences among the three expansion protocols. Magnetic maxillary expansion demonstrates anatomical effects comparable to conventional expansion protocols; importantly, no distinct or superior pharyngeal airway benefit was identified, highlighting the limits of airway-related effects of maxillary expansion rather than evidence of enhanced functional respiratory impact.

Clinical root canal therapy which takes place through mechanical and chemical strategies is faced with challenges in eliminating bacteria owing to the intricate and curved nature of the root canal system. Moreover, the plaque biofilm within the root canal hinders drug penetration and limits treatment efficacy. Hence, efficient root canal therapy hinges on penetrating into the root canal and overcoming the barriers presented by the plaque biofilms. To penetrate and eradicate biofilms effectively at the root canal, we designed a novel magnetic nanoparticle (MN)-based nanoplatform which was synthesized by the self-polymerization of dopamine on the surface of Fe₃O₄ MNs, and then loaded minocycline through the electrostatic interaction. The therapeutic efficacy of minocycline-loaded magnetic nanoparticles (FDM MNs) under a magnetostatic field was observed by various antibacterial experiments. The synthesized FDM MNs exhibited favorable biocompatibility and robust anti-biofilm efficacy. The designed nanoparticles could effectively navigate biofilms to eradicate bacteria residing deep with the assistance of magnetic force. Furthermore, FDM MNs penetrated into dentin tubules under a magnetic field, effectively disrupting biofilms for deep sterilization. The significant results offered valuable experimental evidence to support the potential clinical utility of magnetic nanoparticles for managing pulpitis and periapical inflammation.