Effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on human gingival epithelial cells

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Previous studies demonstrated basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) impacts periodontal ligament (PDL) cell proliferation and extracellular matrix production.
• This research investigates FGF-2 expression within gingival epithelium (GE) and its influence on GE cell proliferation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the expression and localization of FGF-2 in human gingival epithelium.
• To investigate the proliferative effects of FGF-2 on gingival epithelial cells in vitro.

Main Methods:

• Human GE cells were isolated and analyzed for FGF-2 and FGF receptor (FGFR) mRNA expression via RT-PCR.
• Immunohistochemistry using a novel anti-FGF-2 antibody (BF-2) was employed to detect FGF-2 distribution in gingival tissues.
• GE cell proliferation was assessed by measuring [3H]-thymidine uptake in response to FGF-2 stimulation.

Main Results:

• GE cells expressed FGFR-1, -2, -3, and -4 mRNA but not FGF-2 mRNA.
• FGF-2 was localized to intercellular spaces of the gingival epithelium, sensitive to heparitinase treatment.
• FGF-2 significantly enhanced GE cell proliferation in vitro, an effect inhibited by fetal calf serum, contrasting with synergistic enhancement in PDL cells.

Conclusions:

• FGF-2 is localized in gingival epithelial intercellular spaces, likely bound by heparan sulfate.
• FGF-2 may regulate GE cell growth and differentiation through specific cell-type receptors.
• FGF-2 exhibits cell-type specific differential effects on proliferation, notably contrasting GE and PDL cells.