Cytotoxicity and Mineralization Potential of a New Bioactive Silicone-Based Root Canal Sealer on Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Abstract

The study assessed the cytotoxicity and mineralization potential of GuttaFlow bioseal (GF) in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) compared to those of AH Plus sealer. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by an alamarBlue assay. The mineralization was evaluated quantitatively by measuring the alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and evaluated qualitatively through an assessment of mineralized matrix formation using alizarin red staining. Mineralization-related genes were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The cells exposed to AH Plus extracts showed the lowest viabilities. The viabilities of hMSCs incubated with GF extracts were similar to those of the control group. Cells treated with the GF sealer extracts exhibited ALP enzyme activity, showed the formation of calcified nodules and expressed markers for osteoblastic differentiation, whereas the mineralization markers were suppressed by AH Plus. GF sealer extract was less toxic and more efficient in the stimulation of mineralization processes in hMSCs compared with AH Plus.