Cytokine production from human primary teeth pulp fibroblasts stimulated by different pulpotomy agents.

PURPOSE

After exposing the pulp tissue, cytokines are produced that regulate the pulp inflammatory response. The dental literature, however, lacks information on the participation of primary tooth fibroblasts in this process. The purpose of this study was to verify the participation of human primary tooth pulp fibroblasts in the inflammatory process, evaluate the production of interleukin 1 beta (IL-l beta) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) from these cells.

METHODS

Pulpotomy agents were applied as conditioned media on cell cultures in the following groups: (1) negative control; (2) positive control (Lipopolysaccharide -LPS); (3) calcium hydroxide (powder); (4) mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA); (5) adhesive resin; and (6) formocresol. After 24 hours in contact with the cells, the conditioned media were removed, the proteins were extracted from the cells and IL-l beta and IL-8 were quantified by ELISA (Enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay).

RESULTS

Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (P<0.05) and Tukey's test (P<0.05). It was observed that calcium hydroxide has stimulated the production of IL-l beta, without stimulating IL-8. Conversely, the adhesive resin and formocresol stimulated the production of IL-8, and did not stimulate IL-l beta. MTA stimulated both cytokines in an intermediate level when compared to the other materials.

CONCLUSION

Primary tooth fibroblasts can respond immunologically, and different pulp capping materials can help in this process.