Effect of Andrographis paniculata Herbal Extract on Cytotoxicity, Proliferation and Osteogenic/Odontogenic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells: An In Vitro Study.

Background: Research has been conducted to assess the regenerative potential of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) following pretreatment of stem cells with certain molecules, bioactive compounds, plant extract and physical stimulation. Andrographis paniculata (AP) herbal extract with important medicinal properties is proven to have a preosteogenic effect on osteoblasts.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the effect of various concentrations of AP extract on the cytotoxicity and osteogenic and odontogenic potential of DPSCs.

Methods and material: Dental pulp stem cells were subjected to treatment with various concentrations of AP herbal extract (7 ug/ml, 5.2 ug/ml, 3.5 ug/ml, 1.7 ug/ml and 0.8 ug/ml), following which the cells were subjected to tests-3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) analysis for cytotoxicity and real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for expression of genes (bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), osteocalcin (OCN), dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)).

Results: AP extract at concentration of 0.8 ug/ml-5.2 ug/ml had no cytotoxicity supporting cell growth. 3.5 ug/ml showed significant upregulation of genes on the third day.

Conclusion: AP, a commonly occurring medicinal plant through its effect on DPSCs, could serve as an effective pretreatment modality for cell-based regenerative therapy and vital pulp therapy.