Gingival Fibroblast Cells Research Articles

Green-synthesized carbon dots from ginger: Multifunctional agents against oral pathogens with biocompatibility in human gingival fibroblast cells

Persistent antibiotic use in treating oral infections often leads to drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria, notably impacting conditions like periodontitis. Addressing this challenge, the study pioneers the use of carbon dots (CDs) synthesized from ginger rhizomes (Zingiber officinale) as a novel biocompatible material. CDs were synthesized via the hydrothermal method, emphasizing a green approach, and comprehensively characterized for their optical properties and structural uniformity. The synthesized CDs showed a zeta potential of −24.9 mV, confirming the formation of stable and well-dispersed particles. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) confirmed an average particle size of 2.9 nm, thus validating the formation of CDs. Biomedical assessments demonstrated that the synthesized CDs were non-cytotoxic to human gingival fibroblast cell lines, with effective free radical scavenging activity and high total antioxidant capacity, as indicated by their IC50 values. CDs also exhibited moderate inhibition of protein denaturation compared to the standard. Moreover, they showed significant inhibitory effects against bacterial strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal strains (Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans) at minimal concentrations. Notably, CDs inhibited the growth of periodontal pathogens including Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia. These findings underscore the potential of CDs as multifunctional agents possessing anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Remarkably, they offer a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics, potentially revolutionizing oral healthcare. Their proven biocompatibility and potent bioactivity underscore their innovative potential in biomedical research. Future studies should further assess their efficacy in vivo to fully harness their clinical potential.

Decellularized extracellular matrix derived from dental pulp stem cells promotes gingival fibroblast adhesion and migration

BackgroundDecellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) has been proposed as a useful source of biomimetic materials for regenerative medicine due to its biological properties that regulate cell behaviors. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of decellularized ECM derived from dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) on gingival fibroblast (GF) cell behaviors. Cells were isolated from dental pulp and gingival tissues. ECM was derived from culturing dental pulp stem cells in growth medium supplemented with ascorbic acid. A bioinformatic database of the extracellular matrix was constructed using Metascape. GFs were reseeded onto dECM, and their adhesion, spreading, and organization were subsequently observed. The migration ability of the cells was determined using a scratch assay. Protein expression was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.ResultsType 1 collagen and fibronectin were detected on the ECM and dECM derived from DPSCs. Negative phalloidin and nuclei were noted in the dECM. The proteomic database revealed enrichment of several proteins involved in ECM organization, ECM–receptor interaction, and focal adhesion. Compared with those on the controls, the GFs on the dECM exhibited more organized stress fibers. Furthermore, cultured GFs on dECM exhibited significantly enhanced migration and proliferation abilities. Interestingly, GFs seeded on dECM showed upregulation of FN1, ITGB3, and CTNNB1 mRNA levels.ConclusionsECM derived from DSPCs generates a crucial microenvironment for regulating GF adhesion, migration and proliferation. Therefore, decellularized ECM from DPSCs could serve as a matrix for oral tissue repair.

Biocompatibility and Enamel Remineralization Potential of Titanium-Doped Phosphate Glasses With/Without Diode Laser Irradiation

This study investigates the biocompatibility and enamel remineralization potential of titanium-doped phosphate glasses (TDPG), third-generation materials with promising applications in dentistry. The biocompatibility of TDPG paste and its components (TDPG powder and polyacrylic acid liquid) was assessed using human gingival fibroblast cells (hGF) and human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSC). Cell attachment and viability were examined at 1, 3, and 7 days, comparing results with Nupro® Prophy paste and Teethmate, commonly used desensitizers, and positive control cells in normal tissue culture medium. Furthermore, the remineralization potential of these glasses with or without the use of diode laser irradiation on white spot lesions in enamel was explored at 12- and 21-days using Raman Spectroscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The remineralization potential of TDPG was compared with Nupro® Prophy paste and Teethmate. Furthermore, both sound and demineralized enamel were also used as other controls.Results indicated that cells exposed to TDPG extracts displayed similar morphology and viability to positive control cells. While all tested pastes did not show remineralizing action after 12 days, Nupro® Prophy and Teethmate exhibited such action after 21 days. However, laser application enhanced remineralization potential for all pastes at both time points, with TDPG showing comparable results to Nupro® Prophy paste and significantly higher potential than Teethmate when used with laser at 21 days.In summary, this study reveals the biocompatibility and enhanced remineralization potential of TDPG when combined with diode laser irradiation. These findings signify innovative strides in dental materials and treatment modalities, offering new possibilities for advanced dental applications.

Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy of Gold Nanoparticle-Enhanced Laser Therapy for Oral Cancer: A Promising Photothermal Approach.

Introduction: Laser therapy employs a concentrated and slender light beam to eliminate or eradicate cancerous cells and pre-cancerous abnormalities. The specific wavelength of 808 nm light is preferentially absorbed by tumor cells compared to healthy cells. This study aimed to assess the combined therapeutic impact of laser and gold, given that gold exhibits photothermal properties when exposed to laser radiation. Methods: In this in vitro study, two cell lines, namely healthy HuGu cells (human gingival fibroblast cells) and head and neck cancer cells (HN-5), were obtained from the Pasteur Institute. The effect of the laser diode with a density of 3 J/cm2 and wavelength of 808 nm on the proliferation and the survival rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma (HN-5) and human gingival fibroblast (HUGU) was assessed in 60seconds. MTT assay, DAPI test, and trypan blue staining were used to determine the growth and proliferation of HN-5 and HUGU cell lines. Results: Findings showed that the laser diode along with gold decreased the rate of proliferation and survival cells in HN-5 compared to healthy cells. The changes in the cell population treated with gold and laser diode 808 were insignificant. Conclusion: Findings reveal that using a low-power laser can effectively inhibit the growth of oral cancer cells. It seems that photothermal therapy is a novel approach to oral cancer therapy.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity and Wound Healing Ability of Coconut Oil Mouthwash on Gingival Fibroblast Cell In Vitro

Coconut oil-pulling therapy is used for maintaining oral health. The procedure has benefits for the prevention of oral disease, including dental caries, oral malodor, bleeding gums. However, virgin coconut oil (VCO) has unsatisfying oily taste. Therefore, coconut oil mouthwash (CoMW) was recently developed. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of coconut oil mouthwash consisting of 60% v/v virgin coconut oil (VCO), 30% v/v propylene glycol (PG), and 10% v/v distilled water on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cells compared with the activity on murine macrophage (Raw 264.7) cells. The cytotoxicity of CoMW, 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), VCO, and PG was assessed. IC50 concentration of CoMW, CHX, and PG were 1:8 (v/v), 1:32 (v/v), and 1:16 (v/v), respectively. All tested concentrations of VCO had no impact on cell viability. Their anti-inflammatory effects of each IC50 concentration were further studied. Notably, the IC50 concentration of CHX also significantly inhibited nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- activated Raw 264.7 cells. Moreover, the IC50 concentrations of CoMW, VCO, PG, and CHX could suppress the interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene expressions in LPS-activated HGF cells, while also enhancing the cell migration of HGF cells as likely to the effect observed with the IC50 concentration of CHX. Wound healing ability of CoMW was also demonstrated after testing with a scratch assay. These findings indicated promising potential for coconut oil mouthwash as an effective agent in reducing inflammation and facilitating wound healing.

A novel injectable boron doped-mesoporous nano bioactive glass loaded-alginate composite hydrogel as a pulpotomy filling biomaterial for dentin regeneration

BackgroundDifferent materials have been used as wound dressings after vital pulp therapies. Some of them have limitations such as delayed setting, difficult administration, slight degree of cytotoxicity, crown discoloration and high cost. Therefore, to overcome these disadvantages, composite scaffolds have been used in regenerative dentistry. This study aims to construct and characterize the physicochemical behavior of a novel injectable alginate hydrogel loaded with different bioactive glass nanoparticles in various concentrations as a regenerative pulpotomy filling material.MethodsAlginate hydrogels were prepared by dissolving alginate powder in alcoholic distilled water containing mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBG NPs) or boron-doped MBG NPs (BMBG NPs) at 10 and 20 wt% concentrations. The mixture was stirred and incubated overnight in a water bath at 50 0 C to ensure complete solubility. A sterile dual-syringe system was used to mix the alginate solution with 20 wt% calcium chloride solution, forming the hydrogel upon extrusion. Then, constructed hydrogel specimens from all groups were characterized by FTIR, SEM, water uptake percentage (WA%), bioactivity and ion release, and cytotoxicity. Statistical analysis was done using One-Way ANOVA test for comparisons between groups, followed by multiple pairwise comparisons using Bonferroni adjusted significance level (p < 0.05).ResultsAlginate/BMBG loaded groups exhibited remarkable increase in porosity and pore size diameter [IIB1 (168), IIB2 (183) (µm)]. Similarly, WA% increased (~ 800%) which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Alginate/BMBG loaded groups exhibited the strongest bioactive capability displaying prominent clusters of hydroxyapatite precipitates on hydrogel surfaces. Ca/P ratio of precipitates in IIA2 and IIB1 (1.6) were like Ca/P ratio for stoichiometric pure hydroxyapatite (1.67). MTT assay data revealed that the cell viability % of human gingival fibroblast cells have declined with increasing the concentration of both powders and hydrogel extracts in all groups after 24 and 48 h but still higher than the accepted cell viability % of (˃70%).ConclusionsThe outstanding laboratory performance of the injectable alginate/BMBGNPs (20 wt%) composite hydrogel suggested it as promising candidate for pulpotomy filling material potentially enhancing dentin regeneration in clinical applications.

Potential effect of Yemeni Sidr Honey on the Viability of Gingival Fibroblasts and Osteoblast Cells

Background/aim: The aim of this research is to investigate the potential beneficial effects of Yemen Sidr honey on human gingival fibroblast and osteoblast cell viability and proliferation. Materials and methods: MTT assays were conducted, and the cells were analyzed using an ELISA reader at 590nm. Cell viability was determined based on the optical density readings. Results: At a lower concentration 5μL, the fibroblast and osteoblast cells exhibited a cell viability percentage of over 50%. Conclusion: Yemen Sidr honey is biocompatible and non-toxic to the cultured fibroblast and osteoblast cells.

Clinacanthus nutans extract lowers periodontal inflammation under high-glucose conditions via inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway.

Periodontal disease is more prevalent in patients with diabetes, and it has a negative impact on their quality of life. Inhibiting the infection and inflammation processes that cause periodontal disease can reduce the severity of the disease and chances of serious complications. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of Clinacanthus nutans extract in reducing the inflammation in gingival fibroblast cells induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Stimulation with LPS under high-glucose conditions led to increased inflammation compared to low-glucose conditions. Treatment of C. nutans extract significantly reduced the expression of these pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. At a concentration of 50μg/mL, it reduced the relative expression of IL6, IL8, and CXCL10 to 0.51 ± 0.09, 0.6 ± 0.19, and 0.09 ± 0.02, respectively, compared to the non-treatment control, accompanied by a decrease in secreted protein as measured by ELISA. Additionally, application of C. nutans extract markedly suppressed the NF-κB signaling pathway by reducing the phosphorylated form of IκBα, NF-κB p65, and nuclear translocation of NF-κB, along with a decrease in COX2, a key mediator in the inflammatory pathway. Furthermore, analysis of RNA sequencing data indicated that the extract clearly reversed the gene expression changes induced by LPS. This was particularly true for the signaling mediators and inflammatory genes in response to NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and TNF signaling pathways. Our finding highlights the potential of C. nutans extract to alleviate inflammation and suggests its potential as a treatment for periodontal disease in patients with diabetes.

Copper doped hydroxyapatite nanocomposite thin films: synthesis, physico-chemical and biological evaluation.

Cu-doped hydroxyapatite (CuHAp) thin films were obtained using spin coating method. To make these thin films, CuHAp suspensions obtained by sol-gel method were used. The coatings obtained were thermally treated at 500°C. After the thermal treatment, the thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moreover, the stability of the suspensions before being used to obtain the thin films was certified by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential methods and ultrasound measurements. In the XRD patterns, the peaks associated with hexagonal hydroxyapatite were identified in accordance with JCPDS no. 09-0432. EDS and XPS results confirmed the presence of Cu ions in the samples. Data about the morphological features and chemical composition of CuHAp thin films were obtained by performing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements. Our results suggest that the CuHAp thin films surface is continuous and homogenous. The presence of the functional groups in the CuHAp thin films was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy studies. Information about the surface topography of the CuHAp thin films has been obtained using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The AFM images determined that the surface topography of the CuHAp thin layer is homogenous and continuous without presenting any unevenness or fissures. The cytotoxicity of CuHAp thin films was assessed using human gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1) cells. The results of the cell viability assays demonstrated that the thin films presented good biocompatible properties towards the HGF-1 cells. Additionally, the adherence and development of HGF-1 cells on the surface of CuHAp thin films were determined using AFM. The AFM surface topographies highlighted that the CuHAp thin film's surface favored the attachment and proliferation of HGF-1 cells on their surface.

Antifungal recombinant psoriasin of human origin effectively inhibits fungal growth on denture base.

To evaluate the efficacy of recombinant psoriasin as a novel treatment for oral candidiasis by eliminating Candida albicans growth on polymethyl methacrylate denture base. Recombinant psoriasin protein was expressed and purified from E. coli, and Candida growth was monitored invitro with varying concentrations of psoriasin. Subsequently, denture-base polymethyl methacrylate was immersed in psoriasin's solution or voriconazole, and fungal growth on the acrylic base and in the medium was examined by scanning electron microscopy and optical density, respectively. Cellular viability of HeLa and human gingival fibroblast cells treated with psoriasin was measured by methylene blue assay. The findings reveal an effective antifungal activity of psoriasin, completely inhibiting Candida albicans growth in RPMI at a protein concentration above 400 nM. Immersing the polymethyl methacrylate with 50 μM psoriasin completely eradicates fungal growth. Psoriasin has low cytotoxicity in HeLa cells at a concentration higher than 12 μM and no toxic effect on human gingival fibroblasts. This study marks psoriasin as an effective alternative to conventional antifungal treatments for denture stomatitis and a safe alternative to chemical antifungals in dental medicine and beyond.

Anti-proliferative impact of resveratrol on gingival fibroblasts from juvenile hyaline fibromatosis

AimResveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound with biological activities such as anti-inflammation and antioxidation. Its anti-fibrotic effect has been experimentally demonstrated in the pancreas and liver. This study aims to determine the anti-proliferative effect of resveratrol on fibroblasts obtained from hyperplastic gingival tissues from a patient diagnosed with Juvenile Hyaline Fibromatosis (JHF).Materials and methodsPrimary gingival fibroblast cell lines were obtained from gingival growth tissues by the gingivectomy of a patient with JHF. Gingival fibroblasts were treated with or without 3 different doses of resveratrol (50, 100, 200 µM). Cytotoxicity and cell proliferation were evaluated after 24, 48, and 72 h. Collagen, TGF, and CTGF were analyzed by ELISA in the 48-hour supernatants.ResultsAll three doses of resveratrol suppressed the proliferation of JHF gingival fibroblasts at 24 and 48 h without showing any cytotoxic effect compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). At 72 h, 100 and 200 µM resveratrol showed significantly less proliferation (p < 0.0001), less collagen, CTGF, and TGF- β (p < 0.001) than the control group.ConclusionResveratrol had a profound anti-proliferative effect on gingival fibroblasts obtained from gingival enlargements with JHF, suggesting that it can be used as a therapeutic to prevent excessive cell growth by suppressing collagen, CTGF, and TGF- β synthesis in the pathogenesis of hyperplasia.

Efficacy of a Novel Nanohydrogel Formulation Containing Dopamine, Chitosan Nanoparticles, and Tridax procumbens Extract for Enhanced Wound Healing in Human Gingival Fibroblast Cells: An In Vitro Study.

Background Natural compounds and biomaterials, such as nanohydrogels, have gained interest due to their biocompatibility and tissue regeneration potential. A novel nanohydrogel was prepared by employing Tridax procumbens, a traditional plant with anti-inflammatory properties and chitosan nanoparticles and a natural bioadhesive with potent antimicrobial and antioxidant effects and dopamine, which has been shown to regulate angiogenesis and influence cell growth. The objective of this study was to examine how human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cells respond to a nanohydrogel formulation containing dopamine, chitosan nanoparticles, and T. procumbens extract in terms of cell viability and cell migration. Methods From human gingival tissue, fibroblasts were cultured. A nanohydrogel formulation was prepared by combining dopamine, chitosan nanoparticles, and T. procumbens extract. Three groups were evaluated: Group 1 (nanohydrogel containing dopamine, chitosan nanoparticles, and T. procumbens extract (DnCTP)), Group 2 (chitosan nanoparticles and T. procumbens extract (nCTP)), and Group 3(T. procumbens extract (TP)). The MTT assay was used to measure the percentage of cell viability and a scratch assay to observe cell migration in the wounded area at different concentrations. The data were tabulated in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, USA) and imported to IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 23.0 (released 2015, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), and the Mann-Whitney U test was conducted to statistically analyze the cell viability for different concentrations within the three groups. Results The nanohydrogel formulation (DnCTP) showed dose-dependent effects on cell viability with the highest cell viability at 40 µL/mL concentration, and higher concentrations of 80 µL/mL exhibited cytotoxic effects. nCTP and TP showed decreased cell viability at 80 µL/mL concentration(p < 0.05), indicating potential cytotoxicity at higher concentrations. DnCTP showed improved cell migration in the scratch assay as compared to other groups (nCTP and TP), indicating its potential for facilitating wound healing. Conclusion Dopamine, chitosan nanoparticles, and T. procumbens worked together synergistically to create a nanohydrogel formulation (DnCTP) that showed promise for improving wound healing in human gingival fibroblast cells at a dose-dependent concentration, which may therefore work as an excellent wound-healing agent in periodontal and peri-implant therapy.

Formulation and Evaluation of Characteristics, Remineralization Potential, and Antimicrobial Properties of Toothpaste Containing Nanohydroxyapatite and Nanosilver Particles: An In Vitro Study.

The current study is aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and remineralizing properties of toothpaste containing nanosilver and nanohydroxyapatite (NH-NS TP). The toothpaste was prepared by incorporating NH-NS TP into a toothpaste base. Following this, a physicochemical analysis of the prepared toothpaste was carried out. The toxicity against human gingival fibroblast (HGF-1) cells was assessed. The antimicrobial activity of the toothpaste was evaluated against Streptococcus mutans and Escherichia coli using the disk diffusion method. Subsequently, 15 selected human premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic purposes were used to measure the remineralization potential. The surfaces of the selected teeth were demineralized using a prepared demineralizing solution [323.4 mg of calcium chloride (CaCl2), M450 µL of calcium acetate (CH3COO)2Ca, 300 mg of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4) at pH 4.4-4.7] for 72 hours and were subjected to a toothbrush simulator applying the prepared toothpaste. The remineralization potential was evaluated by measuring the microhardness of the enamel surface before and after treatment with the toothpaste. Further, the remineralization potential was assessed based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging accompanied by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results showed that the NH-NS TP had significantly greater antimicrobial activity compared to the control toothpaste and no toxicity against HGF-1 up to 40 µg. Approximately, 7-9 mm inhibition zone against S. mutans and 4-6 mm inhibition against E. coli was achieved. Additionally, the toothpaste significantly increased (31.4%) the microhardness of the enamel surface, indicating its potential for remineralization. The SEM images revealed the presence of regular deposits, mostly pertaining to the demineralized spots, resulting in a regained smooth surface. Following this, physicochemical analysis of the prepared toothpaste was carried out, resulting in a pH of 7.38 and showing good extrusion, frothing, and organoleptic properties. Additionally, the toothpaste significantly increased the microhardness of the enamel surface, further indicating its potential for remineralization. NH-NS TP may provide a promising approach for improving oral health by enhancing antimicrobial efficacy and promoting enamel remineralization, while exhibiting reduced toxicity. Sevagaperumal A, Joel JR Periyasamy S. Formulation and Evaluation of Characteristics, Remineralization Potential, and Antimicrobial Properties of Toothpaste Containing Nanohydroxyapatite and Nanosilver Particles: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(6):630-636.

Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 for dental caries prevention

Abstract Cavities, commonly caused by bacteria metabolic acid in dental plaque, pose a prevalent dental problem. This study investigates the use of biocompatible zeolitic imidazolate framework 67 (ZIF-67) for cavities. ZIF-67 exhibits strong metal-binding properties and a large surface area. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) are responsible for dental plaque and cavities. In vitro studies have demonstrated that ZIF-67 could effectively inhibit S. mutans. Experimental evidence reveals that ZIF-67 can disrupt pathogen cell walls, resulting in leakage of DNA and RNA. Additionally, ZIF-67 inhibits biofilm formation on tooth surfaces without cytotoxicity on mammalian gingival fibroblast cells. These findings demonstrate the promising potential of ZIF-67 in preventing cavities and their biomedical applications.

Examination of cytotoxic and antimicrobial effect of whitening toothpastes: an in vitro study.

Toothpastes are widely used to protect oral and teeth health. This study aims to examine the cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of whitening toothpastes. In this study, extracts were prepared according to ISO 10993-12:2021 standard (0.2 g/mL) using whitening and conventional toothpastes. The prepared extracts were added to human gingival fibroblast cell lines (HGF-1) in different dilutions (1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, and 1:32) and a cytotoxicity test was performed. Antimicrobial analysis of toothpastes was performed on Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans using the hole-plate diffusion method. Cell viability and microbial analysis data were examined using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05). Toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in their composition showed statistically more toxic effects (p < 0.05). The activated carbon toothpastes without SLS showed over 90% cell viability after dilution. Although the dilution rate of toothpastes containing SLS increased, cell viability remained below 70%. All toothpastes used in the study showed antimicrobial effects on S. mutans, S. aureus, and C. albicans. Toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide and SLS produced more antibacterial effects than activated carbon, blue covarine, microparticles, and conventional toothpaste. SLS-containing toothpastes showed more toxicity on HGF-1 cells. Toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite did not show toxic effects on HGF-1 cells. SLS, sodium lauryl sarcosinate and hydrogen peroxide in toothpastes increase antimicrobial effects.

Insights into the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial potential of Nigella sativa essential oil against oral pathogens

Oral disorders can exert systemic ramifications beyond their localized effects on dental tissues, implicating a wide array of physiological conditions. The utilization of essential oils (EOs) for protection of oral health represents a longstanding practice. Consequently, in this investigation, essential oil derived from Nigella sativa seeds (NSEO) underwent isolation via the hydro-distillation process, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial activities, and cytocompatibility. The isolated NSEO manifested as a pale-yellow substance and was found to harbor a diverse spectrum of bioactive constituents, including steroids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, proteins, alkaloids, tannin, sesquiterpenoid hydrocarbons, monoterpenoid alcohol, and monoterpenoid ketone (thymoquinone). Notably, the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of NSEO were quantified at 641.23 μg GAE/gm and 442.25 μg QE/g, respectively. Furthermore, NSEO exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of protein denaturation, HRBC membrane stabilization, and hemolysis inhibition. Comparative analysis revealed that NSEO and chlorhexidine (CHX) 0.2% displayed substantial inhibition of hemolysis compared to aspirin. While NSEO and CHX 0.2% demonstrated analogous antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, NSEO showcased heightened efficacy against Lactobacillus acidophilus and Candida albicans. Additionally, NSEO exhibited pronounced effects against periodontal pathogens such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Prevotella intermedia. Importantly, no cytotoxicity was observed on human gingival fibroblast cell lines. These findings underscore the potential of NSEO as a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent in the management of oral microbial pathogens, thereby offering avenues for the development of innovative therapies targeting diverse oral inflammatory conditions. Nevertheless, further investigations are imperative to unlock its full therapeutic repertoire.

Antimicrobial efficacy of direct air gas soft jet plasma for the in vitro reduction of oral bacterial biofilms

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of an air gas soft jet CAP for its potential use in removing oral biofilms, given that plasma-based technologies have emerged as promising methods in periodontology. Two types of biofilms were developed, one by Streptococcus mutans UA 159 bacterial strain and the other by a complex mixture of saliva microorganisms isolated from a patient with periodontitis. This latter biofilm was characterized via Next Generation Sequencing to determine the main bacterial phyla. The CAP source was applied at a distance of 6 mm for different time points. A statistically significant reduction of both CFU count and XTT was already detected after 60 s of CAP treatment. CLSM analysis supported CAP effectiveness in killing the microorganisms inside the biofilm and in reducing the thickness of the biofilm matrix. Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated the possible use of CAP without important side effects towards human gingival fibroblasts cell line. The current study showed that CAP treatment was able to significantly reduce preformed biofilms developed by both S. mutans and microorganisms isolated by a saliva sample. Further studies should be conducted on biofilms developed by additional saliva donors to support the potential of this innovative strategy to counteract oral pathogens responsible for periodontal diseases.

Evaluation of Biological Response Elicited by Two Novel Tooth Cream Formulations of Cocos nucifera- Cell Line Studies and MTT Assay on Human Gingival Fibroblast

The current research endeavors to assess the biological reactions induced by two newly formulated tooth creams from Cocos nucifera. Freshly harvested coconut from the Tirupur district of Tamil Nadu underwent processing to create two distinct formulations: one utilizing coconut milk and the other lyophilized coconut extract. Tooth cream samples were prepared and tested against commercial tooth cream following ISO 10993-5 recommendations. Human gingival fibroblast cells were isolated and cultured according to approved protocols, and cytotoxicity evaluations were conducted through MTT assay and live/dead staining. Results indicated high cell viability in both coconut-based formulations, comparable to the commercial tooth cream. Live/dead staining revealed predominantly live cells with minimal cytotoxic effects. Novel coconut-derived tooth creams exhibit comparable biocompatibility to commercial formulations, showing high cell viability and minimal cytotoxicity with human gingival fibroblasts. This suggests coconut-based tooth creams as safe alternatives for oral care, advocating further investigation into their efficacy and tissue safety. Overall, our findings endorse natural compound utilization in dental care formulations.

Antibiofilm activities of denture cleaning tablets against Streptococcus anginosus - Cytotoxic effects on human gingival fibroblast cells

Antibiofilm activities of denture cleaning tablets against Streptococcus anginosus - Cytotoxic effects on human gingival fibroblast cells

Optimization of toothtablets incorporating Albizia myriophylla Benth. stem extract obtained by eco-friendly microwave-assisted extraction

Albizia myriophylla Benth. stems are composed of the bioactive compound lupinifolin, which has exhibited anti-Streptococcus mutans activity. Extracting this plant for incorporation into oral healthcare products is challenging. This study aimed to optimize the eco-friendly microwave-assisted extraction of A. myriophylla stems. It also optimized toothtablets incorporating A. myriophylla stem extract. First, lupinifolin was isolated, and its structure was determined for use as a biomarker in this study. Next, three extraction parameters—the solvent-to-solid ratio, microwave power, and microwave time—were screened using a one-factor-at-a-time approach before being optimized using a Box–Behnken design. The results showed that the optimized conditions that maximized the extraction yield and lupinifolin content were a solvent-to-solid ratio of 23:1, microwave power of 800 W, and microwave time of 70 s. This extract contained 16.27 ± 0.43 % lupinifolin. The extract exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration of 32 μg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 256 μg/mL. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration with human gingival fibroblast cells was 102.70 ± 1.02 μg/mL for the extract and 76.75 ± 1.03 μg/mL for lupinifolin. The extract was solidified using microcrystalline cellulose and colloidal silicon dioxide before being incorporated into the toothtablet formulation. Three factors in toothtablet production—compression force, microcrystalline cellulose content, and hydrated silica content—were also screened using a one-factor-at-a-time approach before being optimized using a Box–Behnken design. The results showed that the optimized conditions that approached the desired properties were a compression force of 2500 psi, microcrystalline cellulose content of 12 %, and hydrated silica content of 10 %. The developed toothtablets contained 35.64 ± 0.45 mg of lupinifolin per 650 mg toothtablet (or approximately 5.5 % lupinifolin per toothtablet) and retained their anti-S. mutans activity. They appeared safe for human gingival fibroblasts, even when treated for 2 min, with a maximum concentration of 2000 μg/mL. In conclusion, the developed toothtablets incorporating A. myriophylla stem extract can potentially serve as a high-quality, antibacterial, and safe alternative to traditional toothpaste.