The Role of Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) in Periodontal Regeneration: A Systematic Review

TL;DR

This systematic review explores how insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) may help regenerate periodontal tissues and bone, based on in vitro and animal studies.

Contribution

The paper systematically reviews the emerging role of IGF-2 in periodontal regeneration, highlighting its osteogenic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Findings

IGF-2 enhances osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of mesenchymal stem cells in vitro.

Animal studies show IGF-2 increases bone volume and promotes anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization.

Study design variability limits direct comparisons between IGF-2 regenerative outcomes.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Periodontal disease, characterized by progressive destruction of tooth-supporting tissues, often results in substantial alveolar bone loss, necessitating regenerative interventions such as guided bone regeneration (GBR). Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) has emerged as a promising biomolecule for periodontal regeneration because of its osteogenic and immunomodulatory properties. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five electronic databases (Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Wiley, and EBSCO). Studies examining the use of IGF-2 in periodontal or alveolar bone regeneration, including randomized controlled trials, animal studies, and in vitro experiments, were included. Results: Three studies met the inclusion criteria. In vitro, IGF-2 was associated with enhanced osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of mesenchymal stem cells, along with upregulation of key osteogenic markers. In animal models, IGF-2 treatment was associated with increased osteogenesis, greater bone volume, and a shift in macrophage polarization toward a less inflammatory phenotype. However, heterogeneity in study designs, protocols, and outcome measures limited direct comparisons. Conclusions: In vitro, IGF-2 was associated with enhanced osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of mesenchymal stem cells, accompanied by upregulation of key osteogenic markers. In animal models, IGF-2 treatment was associated with increased osteogenesis, greater bone volume, and a shift in macrophage polarization toward a less inflammatory phenotype.

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