Cytotoxicity, Cell Adhesion, and Apoptotic Gene Expression in Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts treated with Endodontic Sealers

Abstract

Objective: The present study assessed cytotoxicity, cell adhesion, and apoptotic gene expression in periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PLF) treated with 2 endodontic sealers. Methods: PLF cells were obtained from nonerupted third molars and cultured. MTS and LIVE/DEAD assays were performed using different treatments and time periods. Cellular adhesion was evaluated using immunocytochemistry for integrin β1 and vinculin expression, and the gene expressions of nuclear factor kB (NF-кB), P53, and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1) were evaluated using PCR. Results: Cell proliferation at 12, 24, and 48 h was statistically significant in the control and PLF groups receiving different treatments; PLF treated with culture medium containing non-hardened (NH) sealers showed a decrease in the number of cells. PLF treated with culture medium containing hardened (H) sealers also exhibited a decreased cell population. Integrin β1 and vinculin were expressed in both cell cultures treated with Acroseal (NH and H); however, the cell morphology changed and the cell population decreased. The gene expression of NF-kB and that of P53 were significantly different between the control group and the groups treated with the different sealers; mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (NH and H) inhibited Apaf-1, and PLF treated with Acroseal H exhibited increased Apaf-1 expression. Conclusion: Both sealers showed a certain level of cytotoxicity. The gene expression of NF-κB and P53 in PLF treated with the sealers showed significant changes compared to that of the control group, and MTA inhibited Apaf-1.