Resin-modified Glass Ionomer induces BMP-2 Expression in Dental Pulp Cells

Resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) has been normally used as a liner / base or a restorative material. Because of its biocompatibility to dental pulp cells, many investigators have suggested its possibility to be used as an alternative pulp-capping material. However, the effect of this material on BMP-2 expression in dental pulp cells has not been studied yet. Objectives: To compare the biocompatibility of pulp-capping material (Dycal) and RMGI [Fuji Lining LC (FL) and Vitrebond (VB)] on primary human dental pulp cells. In addition, the effect on BMP-2 expression was also investigated. Methods: The materials were prepared in disc shape, 6 mm diameter and 1 mm thickness. To test the cytotoxicity, cells were treated with these materials in 10% serum DMEM supplemented with 10 mM ß-glycerophosphate, 50 µg / ml ascorbic acid, and 0.01 µM dexamethasone for 3 days. Then the cell morphology was evaluated. The conditioned media were collected and detected for the level of BMP-2 by ELISA. Results: At 3 days of treatment, FL had better biocompatibilty to the dental pulp cells than Dycal and VB. FL incresaed BMP-2 expression up to 173 % as compared to the control group. Conclusions: FL has the biocompatibility to the dental pulp cells more than Dycal and VB. FL increases BMP-2 expression in human dental pulp cells.