Effect of titanium nanoparticles on cytotoxicity and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-8 in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts - An study.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Initial research suggested a potential link between titanium particles and peri-implantitis. Titanium's susceptibility to fretting, a process that generates microscopic debris, and its passive layer's breakdown in inflammatory environments contribute to the release of titanium ions. However, the full impact of these particles on implant health remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of titanium nanoparticles on the cytotoxicity and matrix metalloproteinase-8 expression in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPDLfs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To investigate the effects of titanium (Ti) on HPDLfs, a standard Ti solution was diluted to create various concentrations (0.001, 0.1, 1, and 100 ppm). HPDLFs were cultured in media containing these Ti concentrations, and their viability was assessed after 24 and 48 h. Based on these cytotoxicity results, optimal Ti concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 10 ppm) were selected for further analysis. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) was measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the impact of Ti on HPDLfs.

RESULTS

Exposure to titanium (Ti) reduced the viability of HPDLFs in a concentration-and time-dependent manner. At 100 ppm, more than 50% cell death was observed. qRT-PCR indicated a significant up-regulation of MMP-8 expression. However, ELISA analysis did not reveal any significant changes in MMP-8 levels.

CONCLUSION

Within the study's limitations, the cytotoxic and immunological responses of HPDLFs to titanium (Ti) are directly linked to the concentration and duration of exposure. Although no significant differences in MMP-8 release were observed across varying TiO2 concentrations, a decrease in cell viability was associated with higher TiO2 levels.