Polynucleotide with cross-linked hyaluronic acid reduces inflammation and increases collagen synthesis

Gingival fibroblasts are a major cellular component of the connective tissue and play a crucial role in wound healing and tissue regeneration through collagen synthesis. This study aimed to assess the effect of polynucleotide (PN) combined with cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) on the proliferation, differentiation, and anti-inflammatory responses of human gingival fibroblasts-1 (HGF-1).

In this in vitro experimental study, HGF-1 cells were cultured with PN/HA, PN, HA, and enamel matrix derivative (EMD). Cell proliferation and migration were assessed at 24 hours and 48 hours, respectively. Long-term cultures were evaluated for collagen and proteoglycan deposition using sirius red and alcian blue staining. Levels of phospho-nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65, collagen type I (Col 1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured using Western blot analysis or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

All experimental groups exhibited increased cellular proliferation and migration compared to the control group. Similar to EMD, PN/HA promoted the synthesis of Col 1 and proteoglycans. At concentrations of 2.5 mg/mL for PN and HA, and 1.0 mg/mL for PN/HA, significant anti-inflammatory effects were observed. These effects included reductions in phospho-NF-κB p65 levels and IL-6 production when exposed to lipopolysaccharides from Porphyromonas gingivalis. EMD, however, did not demonstrate these anti-inflammatory effects.

Within the limitations of this study, we concluded that PN/HA improves gingival tissue healing by promoting cell proliferation and migration, facilitating rapid collagen deposition, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects.