The Effect of Endodontic Material on Macrophages Proliferation and Activation

Objectives: Our hypothesis is that some components from the root canal filling material (Endoflas) may trigger proliferation of cells of adjacent structures. The aim was to evaluate the in vitro effect of Endoflas on the proliferation potential of human macrophages and their activation.

Materials and Methods: Cells from human macrophage line (THP1) were exposed to different descending doses of Endoflas. The effect on proliferation was tested using XTT assay. The effect of this material on the production of TNF alpha from the macrophages was evaluated by ELISA.

Results: The material was shown to be toxic to the cells at high concentrations and causing cellular proliferation at lower concentrations. The production of TNF alpha was concurrent with the influence on cell proliferation rate.

Conclusions: Endoflas at high concentrations has cytotoxic effect on macrophages. This could be the effect soon after application of the material into root canals. At lower concentrations - such as in chronic exposure to the material, there is a proliferative effect on cells and increase in the production of TNF alpha. This phenomenon could explain the clinical finding of the appearance of cysts around the buds of succedaneus teeth some years following the root canal treatment.