Maria's groundbreaking research focused on developing 'tissue-like' 3D cell models of periodontal ligament cells and bone cells using rotating bioreactors and perfusion reactors. Her work explored the impact of various stimuli, such as vitamins and mechanical influences, on these cells.
Her findings revealed that vitamin D significantly increased the release of factors involved in tissue healing, angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and bone resorption in the 3D model of periodontal ligament cells. Vitamin K2, meanwhile, improved the mechanical properties and production of extracellular matrix proteins. The combination of vitamin D and K2 amplified these effects, marking the first study to demonstrate their positive impact on the differentiation of periodontal ligament cells, potentially improving dental support.
The effects of these vitamins were also tested in a 3D cell-based bone model, with vitamin D enhancing the mechanical stiffness and K2 flexibility, suggesting that combined supplementation could result in a stronger bone structure.
Dean Tiril Willumsen and Institute leader Carl Hjortsjö presided over the defense, . The esteemed evaluation committee included Professor Umber Cheema from University College London, Assistant Professor Marta Silva Carvalho from the New University of Lisbon. Janne E Reseland was the main supervisor, and Håvard J Haugen and Unni Syversen as additional supervisors.
