Cytotoxicity analysis of strontium ranelate on cultured human periodontal ligament fibroblasts: A preliminary report

Abstract

Background/Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the cytotoxicity of strontium ranelate (SR) on human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDL cells) in vitro. Methods: PDL cells were obtained from healthy human third molars and cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium. The experimental groups were: G1, cultures treated with fresh medium (control); and G2, G3, G4 and G5: treated with SR at 20, 10, 5 and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. The experimental times were 1, 6, 12 and 24 hours (short-term) for viability and 2, 4, 6 and 8 days (long-term) for cell survival. The cells were counted using a hemocytometer. Data were then analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05). Results: Cultures treated with the highest SR concentrations (G2 and G3) had significantly lower cell viability and cell numbers (p < 0.05) than those in G1, G4 and G5. SR at 2.5 mg/mL was non-cytotoxic to PDL cells. Conclusion: SR was non-toxic at appropriate concentrations. Preclinical tests are needed to further assess its safety and effectiveness for tooth resorption prior to clinical use.