Exploring the Potential of Ornidazole as an Alternative Treatment for Pulpitis: Effects on Dental Pulp Cells and Macrophages

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the potential of ornidazole as an alternative treatment for pulpitis, focusing on its effects on dental pulp cells (DPCs) and macrophages. We assessed the cytotoxicity of various concentrations of ornidazole, its safety and effectiveness in treating inflammatory DPCs, and its regulatory impact on inflammatory markers during inflammation. Materials and Methods: Inflammation in dental pulp cells was induced using lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and varying doses of ornidazole were introduced. Cell proliferation, migration, regulation of inflammation, and promotion of dentinogenesis under inflammatory conditions were evaluated. Additionally, macrophages were cultured with different doses of ornidazole to analyze inflammatory gene expression. Results: Ornidazole concentrations below 10 µg/mL showed no significant cytotoxic effects on DPCs over 7 days. The toxicity of ornidazole was concentration- and time-dependent. Ornidazole decreased the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α while enhancing IL-Ra and IL-8 expression. It also suppressed alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity but increased the levels of odontogenic differentiation markers at both genetic and protein levels in the presence of inflammatory stimuli. Furthermore, ornidazole demonstrated immunomodulatory effects. Conclusions: Low concentrations of ornidazole were safe for use in pulp cells. Ornidazole modulated the expression of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, IL-Ra) in inflamed DPCs and regulated odontogenesis-related markers. Low concentrations of ornidazole enhanced macrophage immune regulation, showing potential as a medication for treating pulpitis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study investigates ornidazole’s affinity for dental pulp cells, its effectiveness in reducing inflammation, and its regulatory effects on odontogenic processes. By examining the impact of different concentrations of ornidazole on pulp inflammation-related cells, we aim to assess its therapeutic potential for pulpitis and provide a reference for its clinical application.