Biocompatibility and Mineralization Potential of Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) on Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Background and objectives: Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) is a natural resinous substance derived from the bark of the Commiphora molmol tree, which is native to Eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine for its well-known antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, it has gained attention for its potential regenerative medicine applications. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the biocompatibility and mineralization potential of myrrh on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). Methods: Myrrh solution (MS) was prepared from commercial organic myrrh resin. The hMSC cell line were exposed to nine different concentrations of MS and viability was assessed using the Alamar Blue assay. The mineralization potential of myrrh was evaluated using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining. Results: At concentrations lower than 15.6 ug/ml after 7 and 14 days of treatment, cell viability levels were not markedly different from the control indicating low cytotoxic effect of the MS on hMSC. ALP levels were higher in the MS experimental groups compared to the control group. The AZR results were consistent with the ALP levels and confirmed that MS promoted hMSC mineralization. Conclusions: These findings confirm the cellular biocompatibility and the mineralization potential of myrrh in hMSC cell lines in vitro.