Preparation of glass-ionomer cement containing ethanolic Brazilian pepper extract (*Schinus terebinthifolius* Raddi) fruits: chemical and biological assays

This study aimed to prepare and evaluate a new drug delivery system based on a glass-ionomer-Brazilian pepper extract composite, to check for its activity against pathogenic microorganisms of the oral cavity, along with its *in vitro* biocompatibility. The ethanolic Brazilian pepper extract (BPE), the glass-ionomer cement (GIC) and the composite GIC-BPE were characterized. The flavonoids were released through a linear mechanism governing the diffusion for the first 48 h. ATR-FTIR analysis indicated a chemical bond between GIC and BPE, but compressive strength did not differ significantly. The GIC-BPE sample showed ample bacterial activity at non-cytotoxic concentrations. These results suggest the composite as an alternative agent for endodontic treatment.

Isabelle C. Pinto, Janaína B. Seibert, Luciano S. Pinto, Vagner R. Santos, Rafaela F. de Sousa, Lucas R. D. Sousa, Tatiane R. Amparo, Viviane M. R. dos Santos, Andrea M. do Nascimento, Gustavo Henrique Bianco de Souza, Walisson A. Vasconcellos, Paula M. A. Vieira, Angela L. Andrade