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Gutta-percha-stimulated mouse macrophages release factors that activate the bone resorptive system of mouse calvarial

U Sjögren1, A Ohlin, G Sundqvist

  • 1Department of Endodontics, Umeå University, Sweden. Ulf.Sjogren@endo.umu.se

Insights

Macrophages exposed to gutta-percha particles release factors that stimulate bone resorption. Interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) is identified as the primary mediator of this bone-resorbing activity.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Bone Biology
  • Biomaterials Science

Background:

  • Gutta-percha is a common root canal filling material.
  • Macrophages play a crucial role in bone remodeling and inflammation.
  • The interaction between biomaterials and immune cells can influence bone metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of gutta-percha particles on macrophage-derived factors involved in bone metabolism.
  • To identify the specific factors produced by macrophages that affect bone resorption.
  • To elucidate the mechanism by which gutta-percha influences bone resorption.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and incubation of mouse peritoneal macrophages with gutta-percha particles.
  • Assessment of bone resorbing activity in macrophage-conditioned media using neonatal mouse calvarial bone cultures.
  • Measurement of mineral mobilization (45Ca release) and matrix degradation (3H-proline release).
  • Analysis of prostaglandin E2 and I2 production.
  • Inhibition studies using indomethacin, calcitonin, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and anti-IL-1alpha/IL-1beta antiserum.
  • Molecular weight determination of active factors via filtration.

Main Results:

  • Supernatants from gutta-percha-stimulated macrophages significantly enhanced bone resorption.
  • Bone resorption was dose- and time-dependent on gutta-percha exposure and conditioned media.
  • Stimulated macrophages showed increased production of prostaglandins E2 and I2, but prostaglandin inhibition did not affect bone resorption.
  • Bone resorption was inhibited by calcitonin, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and anti-IL-1alpha antiserum, but not anti-IL-1beta.
  • Active factors involved in resorption had a molecular weight between 3000 and 30,000 Da.

Conclusions:

  • Mouse peritoneal macrophages exposed to gutta-percha particles release bone-resorbing factors.
  • The primary factor responsible for the enhanced bone resorption is interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha).
  • These findings suggest a potential mechanism for periapical bone loss associated with gutta-percha use in endodontics.

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