Cytokine expression in human osteoblasts after antiseptic treatment: a comparative study between polyhexanide and...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cell Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chlorhexidine and polyhexanide are broad-spectrum antiseptics used in wound treatment.
• Their impact on human osteoblasts, crucial for bone health, requires further investigation.
• Understanding antiseptic effects on osteoblasts is vital for managing septic joint infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro effects of chlorhexidine and polyhexanide on human osteoblasts.
• To determine if these antiseptics activate inflammatory cytokine and chemokine secretion.
• To compare the osteoblast response to clinically relevant concentrations of both agents.

Main Methods:

• Human osteoblasts were isolated and cultured in vitro.
• Cells were exposed to chlorhexidine (0.1%, 2%) and polyhexanide (0.04%).
• Morphological changes were assessed via light microscopy; cytokine/chemokine secretion was quantified using multiplex arrays.

Main Results:

• Both antiseptics induced osteoblast cell damage, including shrinking and membrane defects.
• Polyhexanide, unlike chlorhexidine, significantly stimulated the secretion of multiple inflammatory mediators.
• Mediators included interleukins (1β, 6, 7), TNF-α, IFN-γ, and growth factors.

Conclusions:

• Both chlorhexidine and polyhexanide cause morphological damage to osteoblasts.
• Polyhexanide uniquely induces a significant inflammatory response in human osteoblasts.
• Chlorhexidine may be a preferred antiseptic in septic surgery to mitigate inflammatory reactions.