Comparison of Cytotoxic Effects of Silver Nanoparticles and Calcium Hydroxide on Human Gingival Fibroblasts: An In-vitro Study

Abstract

Objective: The current investigation aimed to study the cytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) alone, Compared with Conventionally used calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] or in combination of both materials to Human Gingival Fibroblast cells (HGFs) at different time intervals. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity of AgNPs and Ca(OH)2 was tested, in-vitro, using cultured HGFs. After 24 hours and 7 days of exposure, Cytotoxicity was assessed using multiparametric assay kit including extracellular Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDHe) and 2,3- bis (2-methoxy- 4-nitro- 5-sulphophenyl)- 2H- tetrazolium- 5-carboxanilide (XTT). Results: In cytotoxic analysis, AgNPs and Ca(OH)2 decreased HGF. viability after 24 hr. of exposure (54.54% and 77.5%, respectively). The combination of both materials resulted in ≥ 90% viable cells after 24 hrs. of exposure. After 1 week, no significant difference was detected between all the experimental groups. Conclusion: The exposure of HGFs to AgNPs or Ca(OH)2 has reduced the cells viability after 24 hrs. of exposure, while viability was increased after 1 week. Additionally, the combination of both materials is nontoxic and resulted in higher cells viability in 24 hrs. and 1 week of exposure suggesting the presence of synergistic effect between these materials.