Effects of areca nut extract on the apoptosis pathways in human neutrophils.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Areca nut, a major component in area quid, possesses genotoxic and carcinogenic activities. Areca nut extract (ANE) may affect the defensive functions of neutrophils. Recent studies suggest that areca nut chewing is associated with a higher prevalence of periodontal disease as a result of the detrimental effects of ANE on the host defense system. This study examined the effects of ANE on the apoptosis pathways in human neutrophils.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Apoptosis/necrosis of neutrophils was determined using flow cytometry. Proteins involved in the apoptosis pathway were determined using western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

The results indicated that ANE reduced early apoptosis, but increased the primary necrosis of neutrophils. ANE may arrest neutrophils in the G0/G1 phase and reduce the apoptotic hypodiploid DNA contents. The levels of cleaved forms of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, and of caspase-3 and caspase-8 were decreased by treatment with ANE. Moreover, glycogen synthase kinase-3 alpha/beta may be involved in the ANE-modulated effects of neutrophils.

CONCLUSION

Areca nut may regulate death pathways in neutrophils. This may be one mechanism by which areca nut compromises the periodontal health of areca nut chewers.