RESUMO
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the impact of bioactive plant extracts on the proliferation and migration of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and their potential implications for dental care, focusing on the nurse-caring aspect. Materials and Methods: TDPSCs were cultured on gelatin polymer scaffolds mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) environment. Bioactive plant extracts with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties were incorporated into the gelatin polymer at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 2.0%. Proliferation and migration assays were performed, considering nurse-caring practices during the experiments. Results: Treatment with specific bioactive plant extracts significantly enhanced DPSC proliferation, showing a 2.5-fold increase compared to the control groups. The migration assay revealed a substantial increase in cell migration distance, with treated cells covering an average distance of 400-500 µm compared to 220-260 µm in the control group. Treated cells also exhibited improved viability and metabolic activity, with a 30% increase in cell viability and a 10-20% increase in metabolic activity compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that bioactive plant extracts have the potential to enhance DPSC proliferation, migration, viability, and metabolic activity. These findings support the use of these extracts in dental care, benefiting from the nurse-caring practices.
