Cytocompatibility and bioactive potential of Pentaclethra macroloba extract and Ca(OH)2 as intracanal medication

Alternative therapies using plant-derived extracts are currently being studied due to their beneficial properties. This study investigated the Amazonian extract of Pentaclethra macroloba, pure and in combination with calcium hydroxide, regarding its biological properties in endodontics. Osteoblast Saos-2 and Fibroblast L929 cell lines were used for evaluation of cell viability/metabolism by MTT (48h), cell proliferation with Alamar blue (1, 3, 5 and 7 days), mineralization with Alizarin Red (7 days) and alkaline phosphatase activity (7 days). In Saos-2, lower concentrations of the medications were less cytotoxic in the MTT assay. There was cell proliferation on days 3 and 5. Mineralization nodules were observed in the 3 groups. In L929 cells, the lowest concentrations were not cytotoxic in the MTT assay, and there was cell proliferation on days 3, 5, and 7. Pentaclethra macroloba extract was not cytotoxic, it induced cell proliferation, and was able to form mineralization nodules, essential characteristics for endodontic medications.