Cytotoxicity evaluation of fungal-derived silver nanoparticles on human gingival fibroblast cell line: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been proposed as effective antimicrobial agents against endo-perio pathogens. Determination of cytotoxicity is important for effective clinical use. AIM: The aim is to determine the cytotoxicity of fungal-derived AgNPs on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cell line using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS: HGF cell cultures were trypsinized and adjusted to 5 × 103 cells/ml and 100-µl cell suspension (50,000 cells/well) and were added to 96-well plate. After 24 h, 100 µl of AgNPs (8-512-µg/ml concentrations) was added and incubated at 37°C for 24 h in 5% CO2 atmosphere. Controls were used without AgNPs. MTT (1 mg/ml) was added and incubated for 4 h at 37°C in 5% CO2 atmosphere. Microscopic examination was done, and absorbance was measured using a microplate reader at a wavelength of 540 nm. Percentage growth inhibition was calculated, and the concentration of AgNPs needed to inhibit cell growth by 50% (CTC50) was generated. RESULTS: CTC50 was found at a concentration of 260 µg/ml. AgNPs exerted less cytotoxicity against HGF cell line and increased with increase in the concentration of AgNPs. CONCLUSION: Fungal-derived AgNPs are safe to healthy cells at a concentration <260 µg/ml. Therefore, they can be effectively used for the treatment of endo-perio lesions.

Antibiofilm efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles against endodontic-periodontal pathogens: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Endodontic-periodontal pathogens exist as biofilms which are difficult to eliminate. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) emerged as newer antimicrobial agents with potential benefits. AIM: The aim of this study is to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC); evaluate the antibiofilm efficacy of fungal-derived AgNPs against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MIC of AgNPs against test pathogens was determined using micro broth dilution method. Serial dilutions of AgNPs ranging from 80 to 1 µg/ml concentration were added to wells containing 10 µl of bacterial inoculum in culture media and control group without AgNPs. For biofilm models, 120 dentin blocks were prepared, sterilized, and contaminated for 2 weeks with (n = 40 each). Group 1: B. pumilus, Group 2: E. faecalis, and Group 3: P. gingivalis and each group is divided into four subgroups (n = 10 each) and treated with distilled water, AgNPs, 2% and 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX). Colonies counted after 24 h of incubation and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests. RESULTS: MIC for B. pumilus was determined as 20 µg/ml and 30 µg/ml for E. faecalis and P. gingivalis. AgNPs were effective as 2% CHX against all biofilms compared to control group. Post hoc Tukey test (P < 0.0001) shows no significant difference between groups. CONCLUSION: Fungal-derived AgNPs are effective against endo-perio pathogens.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles against Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm: An in vitro Study.

AIM: This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced using the fungi against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm model on root dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AgNPs were biosynthesized using the fungi Fusarium semitectum isolated from healthy leaves of Withania somnifera. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AgNPs was determined by microbroth dilution method using series of dilutions. MIC dose was standardized to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy. For biofilm model, thirty root dentin blocks prepared using human extracted single-rooted teeth were inoculated with E. faecalis in Trypticase soy agar broth for 2 weeks with alternate day replenishment and randomly divided into three groups (n = 10 each) and treated as: Group I: Sterile distilled water, Group II: AgNPs, and Group III: 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Each dentin block was rinsed in saline, vortex shaken for 60 s, and serial decimal dilutions were prepared and plated on trypticase soy agar plates and incubated for 24 h followed by CFU colony counting and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference test. RESULTS: MIC of AgNPs for E. faecalis was determined as 30 mg/ml. No significant difference was seen between AgNPs and 2% CHX when compared to the control group with mean colony counts being 2.4, 2.5, and 6.77 CFU/ml (107), respectively (P < 0.0001), against E. faecalis biofilm. CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit effective antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis biofilm on root dentin. Therefore, it can be employed as antimicrobial agent for root canal disinfection.

Evaluation of Antibacterial Efficacy of Fungal-Derived Silver Nanoparticles against Enterococcus faecalis.

BACKGROUND: The main objective of endodontic therapy is complete elimination and prevention of bacteria from the root canal system; however, it is difficult due to anatomical ramifications of root canal system and growing resistant microbes to available disinfectants. Therefore, to overcome this problem, newer antimicrobial agents have to be developed. AIMS: The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of fungal-derived biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Freshly prepared silver nanoparticles using the endophytic fungi Fusarium semitectum, characterized by different techniques were used to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy against E. faecalis by agar well diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition using different concentrations of nanoparticles (AgNPs) (A [20 µl], B [40 µl], C [60 µl], D [80 µl], and E [100 µl]), F (0.2% chlorhexidine [CHX]), G (2% CHX), H (ampicillin), and I (distilled water) were used as control groups. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test was done. RESULTS: AgNPs (100 ml) showed highest zone of inhibition 19.5 mm against E. faecalis. CHX (0.2%) 14.52 mm, CHX (2%) 20.02 mm, and ampicillin showed highest mean zone of inhibition 20.5 mm and distilled water showed no zone of inhibition. Results indicate no significant difference between E (100 µl), G (2% CHX), and H (ampicillin) (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit efficient antibacterial activity against E. faecalis and therefore can be used as root canal irrigant or intracanal medicament for root canal disinfection.

Biosynthesis, Characterization and Antibacterial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Endophytic Fungi against P. gingivalis.

INTRODUCTION: Microbial resistance to existing antimicrobial agents in periodontal therapy is a growing problem. Therefore, there is a need for development of new antimicrobial agents. AIM: To biosynthesize and characterize Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) using endophytic fungi and to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cut leaf segments of Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) were used to isolate the fungi. Fresh cultures of fungi were inoculated in Erlenmeyer flask of 100 ml Malt Glucose Yeast Peptone (MGYP) broth and incubated at 29°C for 72 hours for the biomass to grow. Biomass was filtered and cell free fungal filtrate was used further. Biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by visual observation, Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction Analysis (SAED) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by agar diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition. The study groups included different concentrations of AgNPs: A (20 µl), B (40 µl), C (60 µl), D (80 µl) and E (100 µl) of AgNPs, F (0.2% CHX), G (2% CHX), H (Ampicillin) and I (sterile distilled water). The data collected for inhibition zones were statistically analysed using One-way Anova followed by Tukey post-hoc multiple comparison tests. RESULTS: The fungi were identified as Fusarium semitectum. Characterization studies showed the colour change from colourless to reddish brown; U-V spectrum showed peak 420 nm, TEM revealed the particles spherical in shape and 10-20 nm in size. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups. AgNPs 80 µl and 100 µl showed mean zone of inhibition 17.33 and 18 mm against P. gingivalis. CHX (0.2%) 17.85 and CHX (2%) 19.97 mm, Ampicillin 20.5 mm and no zone for sterile distilled water. CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs showed efficient antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis hence, creates a new horizon in periodontal therapy.

Evaluation of antibacterial efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles derived from fungi against endo-perio pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis.

BACKGROUND: Even after rapid progress in contemporary dental practice, we encounter the failures due to endodontic, periodontal, or combined lesions. Complex anatomy of tooth and resistant microbes demands the development of new treatment strategies. AIM: The aim of this study is to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using fungi and determine the antibacterial efficacy against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacillus pumilus, and Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fungi isolated from healthy leaves of Withania somnifera were used to biosynthesize AgNPs. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by different methods, and antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by agar well diffusion method measuring the zone of inhibition. Test microorganisms were divided as Group 1: B. pumilus 27142 (American Type Culture Collection [ATCC]), Group 2: E. faecalis 29212 (ATCC), and Group 3: P. gingivalis 33277 (ATCC). Agents used for antibacterial efficacy were grouped as: AgNPs: A (20 µl), B (40 µl), C (60 µl), D (80 µl), E (100 µl), F (0.2% chlorhexidine [CHX]), G (2% CHX), H (Ampicillin), and I (sterile distilled water). RESULTS: Characterization studies showed the color change from colorless to reddish brown color; ultraviolet spectrum showed peak at 420 nm, transmission electron microscope revealed the particles spherical in shape and 10-20 nm size. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed the presence of functional groups. Data collected for antibacterial efficacy were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's multiple shows no significant difference among three groups (P < 0.0001). AgNPs were as effective as CHX and positive control ampicillin. No zones were seen for I (distilled water). CONCLUSION: Biosynthesized AgNPs showed efficient antibacterial efficacy. Therefore, it creates a new horizon in the management of endodontic, periodontal, and combined lesions.

Research on curcumin: A meta-analysis of potentially malignant disorders.

INTRODUCTION: Turmeric has been described in ayurveda, and is referred by different names in different cultures, the active principle called curcumin or diferuloylmethane, has been shown to exhibit numerous activities. Extensive research over the last half century has revealed several important functions of curcumin. It binds to a variety of proteins and inhibits the activity of various kinases. By modulating the activation of various transcription factors, curcumin regulates the expression of inflammatory enzymes, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and cell survival proteins. Various preclinical, clinical, and animal studies suggest that curcumin has potential as an antiproliferative, anti-invasive, and antiangiogenic, as a mediator of chemoresistance, chemopreventive, and as a therapeutic agent. Thus, curcumin a spice once relegated to the kitchen shelf has moved into the clinic and may prove to be "Curecumin." Methodology and Objectives: The focus of this publication is to provide research on curcumin with scientific publications on curcumin indexed in PubMed, Google J-Gate including systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCT's), observational studies, or case series reports for various potentially malignant disorders (PMD's) with special attention to studies on oral submucous fibrosis. This research will be valuable in terms of identifying opportunities to provide recommendations for future research, in terms of the populations to research, the types of interventions needed, the types of outcomes to be measured, the study designs needed, to initiate a pathway for a low-cost research plan for future clinical trials in this field with an emphasis on conducting studies in regions of the world where PMD's are prevalent. CONCLUSION: There is a lacunae for scientific review of curcumin for PMDs specially on OSMF. Appropriate therapeutic interventions are needed for the initial, intermediate, and advanced stages of the disease. High-quality RCTs should be initiated.

Changes in cellular and molecular components of peripheral blood in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis.

AIM: The association between periodontitis and systemic health is evident; however, until recently, there has been a lack of scientific evidence to define the relationship between aggressive periodontitis and systemic conditions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in the white blood cell count and levels of serum proteins in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAP) and to compare it with periodontally-healthy controls. METHODS: Patients with GAP (n = 60) and periodontally-healthy controls (n = 60) were recruited. Clinical parameters, including probing depth and clinical attachment level, were examined. Blood cell variables, including leukocyte, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts, and serum protein parameters, including total protein, albumin (ALB), globulin (GLB), ALB/GLB (A/G) ratio, and C-reactive protein levels, were analyzed. RESULTS: The results showed a statistically-significant increase in neutrophil numbers and serum GLB and C-reactive protein levels in patients with GAP compared to the controls (P < 0.001), whereas the ALB level and A/G ratio were significantly lower compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The results showed possible changes in the cellular and molecular components of peripheral blood in patients with GAP compared to periodontally-healthy controls. These changes might represent the contribution of periodontal infections to systemic inflammation in relatively young individuals.

Lip repositioning.

Excessive gingival display is a frequent finding that can occur because of various intraoral or extraoral etiologies. This report describes the use of surgical lip repositioning technique for the management of a gummy smile associated with vertical maxillary excess and hypermobility of the upper lip. The procedure restricts the muscle pull of the elevator lip muscles by shortening the vestibule, thus reducing the gingival display when smiling. Healing was uneventful and follow-up examinations of 10 months revealed reduced gingival display. For patients desiring a less invasive alternative to orthognathic surgery, lip repositioning is a viable alternative.

Stem cell therapy: a challenge to periodontist.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease which manifests clinically as loss of supporting periodontal tissues including periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone, and periodontal therapy is aimed at achieving complete regeneration of these structures. To date, this goal has been tried to accomplish using various bone grafts, growth factors, and barrier membranes. Stem cells are the most fascinating area of biology today and have been used clinically in the field of medicine to treat many incurable diseases. Various human and animal studies have confirmed the presence of stem cells in dental tissues including periodontal ligament. This has opened new avenues aiming toward complete periodontal regeneration using cell-based therapies. This review provides an overview of various types of stem cells in medicine and dentistry and their potential uses especially pertaining to periodontal regeneration.

A Radiographic comparison of mandibular bone quality in pre- and post-menopausal women in Indian population.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The main objective of the study is to assess mandibular bone changes in pre and postmenopausal women with chronic generalized periodontitis using different radiomorphometric indices, mandibular cortical index (MCI), mental index (MI), and panoramic mandibular index (PMI) in Indian population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Panoramic radiographs of 60 patients visiting the Department of Periodontology were taken and divided in two groups - pre and post-menopausal. Detailed medical and menopausal history was recorded for each patient. All the radiographs were assessed for PMI, MI and MCI and presence of periodontitis. The destructive periodontitis was assessed as distance from the cementoenamel junction to the alveolar crest greater than 2mm. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Student-t test was applied to compare mean values of MI and PMI. Intra and inter group comparison of MCI were made using chi-square test. Correlation of age and MI and PMI was found by Pearson's correlation coefficient. RESULTS: MCI, PMI and MI were related to the menopausal status. Patients with C3 category were seen only in post-menopausal group after 54 years of age. Higher mean values for both MI (p<0.05) and PMI (p<0.05) were observed in pre-menopausal group with statistically significant differences. MI showed negative correlation with age in both the groups; however PMI was positively correlated with age. CONCLUSIONS: Radiomorphometric indices could be used by general dentists after a little training to detect post-menopausal women at higher risk of osteoporosis.