Effects of a vegetable extract from Lupinus albus (LU105) on the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP1, MMP2, MMP9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP1, TIMP2) by human gingival fibroblasts in culture

Effect of puerarin on collagen metabolism of fibroblasts in pelvic tissue of women with pelvic organ prolapse

The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of puerarin on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and the underlying mechanisms that regulate the metabolism of human parametrial ligament fibroblasts (HPLFs). HPLFs obtained from the pelvic tissue of patients with (n=10) or without (n=8) POP during hysterectomy were isolated by enzymatic digestion and subsequently identified by immunocytochemistry in a previous study of the authors. Following this, cultured HPLFs were treated with 0.01, 0.10 or 1.00 mmol/l puerarin, followed by detection of proliferation rate by Cell Counting kit‑8 assay. Following incubation with puerarin for 48 h, mRNA and protein expression levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‑1 (TIMP‑1), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‑2 and ‑9, and collagen (COL)I and III in HPLFs were quantified by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and western blot and gelatin zymography analyses, respectively. MMP‑2 and ‑9 expression levels were increased, whereas expression levels of TIMP‑1, and COL I and III were decreased, in patients with POP compared with healthy controls. Following puerarin treatment, the expression levels of TIMP‑1, and COL I and III were enhanced, whereas MMP‑2 and ‑9 were inhibited. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated evidence increased degradation of the extracellular matrix in pelvic tissues of patients with POP compared with controls, and the protective effect of puerarin against POP via its anti‑degradation effect on collagen. These results provide evidence for puerarin as a novel approach for the treatment of POP.

Insight into Oral Biofilm: Primary, Secondary and Residual Caries and Phyto-Challenged Solutions

INTRODUCTION

Dental caries is known to be one of the most widespread, chronic infections affecting all ages and populations worldwide. The plethora of oral microbial population paves way for various endogenous infections and plays a crucial role in polymicrobial interactions contributing to biofilm-mediated diseases like caries and periodontal diseases.

METHODS

Extensive literature survey was conducted using the scientific databases like PubMed, Google scholar, Science Direct, etc. using the key words like dental caries, orodental infections, dental microbes, dental biofilm, secondary caries, phytotherapy, etc. The literature was analyzed thoroughly and critical review was performed.

RESULTS

The risk of development of secondary caries and residual caries further results in treatment failure. Drug resistance developed by oral microbes and further side effects pose serious hurdles in the current therapeutic strategies. The hyperactivities of various MMPs and the resulting massive ECM degradation are the challenging part in the design of effective therapeutic approaches. Anticariogenic phytotherapy is well appreciated owing to lesser side effects and versatility of their action. But appreciable outcomes regarding the phytochemical bioavailability and bioretention are still challenging. Site-specific delivery of phytoagents at the infected site may enhance the efficiency of these drugs. Accordingly emerging phytodentistry can be promising for the management of secondary and residual caries.

CONCLUSION

This article presents major cariogens and their mechanisms in initiating and aggravating dental caries. Effectiveness of phytotherapy and different mode of action of phytochemicals against cariogens are outlined. The article also raises major concerns and possibilities of phytochemical based therapeutics to be applied in the clinical arena of caries management.

Proteins in Soy Might Have a Higher Role in Cancer Prevention than Previously Expected: Soybean Protein Fractions Are More Effective MMP-9 Inhibitors Than Non-Protein Fractions, Even in Cooked Seeds

The search for anticancer MMP-9 inhibitors (MMPIs) in food products has become a major goal for research. MMPIs in soy have been related only to saponins and isoflavones, but recently, low specific protein fractions in soybeans were shown to reduce MMP-9 activity as well. The present work aimed at comparing the MMPI potential of protein fractions (P) and non-protein fractions (NP) isolated from soybean seeds, before and after soaking and cooking, mimicking dietary exposures. Reverse and substrate zymography, as well as a fluoregenic DQ gelatin assay were used to evaluate MMP-9 activities. Colon cancer cell migration and proliferation was also tested in HT29 cells. Regarding MMP-9 inhibition, proteins in soy presented IC₅₀ values 100 times lower than non-protein extracts, and remained active after cooking, suggesting that proteins may be more effective MMP-9 inhibitors than non-protein compounds. Using the determined IC₅₀ concentrations, NP fractions were able to induce higher inhibitions of HT29 cell migration and proliferation, but not through MMP-9 inhibition, whilst protein fractions were shown to specifically inhibit MMP-9 activity. Overall, our results show that protein fractions in soybeans might have a higher role in soy-related cancer prevention as MMPIs than previously expected. Being nontoxic and active at lower concentrations, the discovery of these heat-resistant specific MMPI proteins in soy can be of significant importance for cancer preventive diets, particularly considering the increasing use of soy proteins in food products and the controversy around isoflavones amongst consumers.

The Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) in Human Caries

The objective of this review is to summarize our understanding of the role of host matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the caries process and to discuss new therapeutic avenues. MMPs hydrolyze components of the extracellular matrix and play a central role in many biological and pathological processes. MMPs have been suggested to play an important role in the destruction of dentin organic matrix following demineralization by bacterial acids and, therefore, in the control or progression of carious decay. Host-derived MMPs can originate both from saliva and from dentin. They may be activated by an acidic pH brought about by lactate release from cariogenic bacteria. Once activated, they are able to digest demineralized dentin matrix after pH neutralization by salivary buffers. Furthermore, the degradation of SIBLINGs (Small Integrin-binding Ligand N-linked Glycoproteins) by the caries process may potentially enhance the release of MMPs and their activation. This review also explores the different available MMP inhibitors, natural or synthetic, and suggests that MMP inhibition by several inhibitors, particularly by natural substances, could provide a potential therapeutic pathway to limit caries progression in dentin.

Influence of mechanical compression on human periodontal ligament fibroblasts and osteoblasts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the changes in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPdLFs) and osteoblasts (HOBs) after the application of compressive force (CF) at two different strengths in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPdLF and HOB were exposed to CF with various strengths (5 and 10 %) using a Flexercell Compression Unit for 12 h in vitro. Viability was detected via 3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2.5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and apoptosis rate by transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The gene expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OCN), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) was analyzed using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Osteopontin (OPN), matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), and tissue inhibition of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) were quantified by an ELISA.

RESULTS

Ten percent CF decreased viability, particularly in HOBs, but did not induce increased apoptosis. ALP gene expression increased the most after 5 % CF in HPdLFs and after 10 % CF in HOB. OCN was not affected by CF in either cell line. The highest RANKL/OPG ratio was measured after 5 % CF in both cell lines. OPN was upregulated in HOB by 5 %. HPdLFs showed an upregulation of MMP-8-synthesis and an increased MMP-8/TIMP-1 ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

HOBs have a greater effect on bone remodeling through the upregulation of OPN, whereas HPdLFs facilitate orthodontic tooth movement by influencing the extracellular matrix via the MMP-8/TIMP-1 ratio.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

High CF in orthodontics should be avoided to prevent tissue damage, whereas moderate CF enables active tissue remodeling and tooth movement.

An integral topical gel for cellulite reduction: results from a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled evaluation of efficacy

BACKGROUND

Cellulite is a serious cosmetic concern for most of the 90% of women affected by it.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinical efficacy of a complex integral anti-cellulite gel.

METHODS

This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involved 44 healthy women, aged 25-55 years. Subjects had a normal to slightly overweight body mass index and presented slight to moderate cellulite on their thighs, buttocks, and/or hips at baseline. Subjects were randomly assigned to either the treated or placebo group and accordingly applied the active product or placebo on their hips, stomach, buttocks, and thighs, twice daily for 3 months. Skin tonicity, orange-peel aspect, and stubborn cellulite were assessed at day 0, 28, 56, and 84. A self-evaluation questionnaire was completed by all volunteers.

RESULTS

At the end of the study, an average of 81% of the subjects applying the active product presented improvement in their cellulite condition versus 32% for the placebo group (all descriptors and sites combined). At day 84, skin tonicity, orange-peel appearance, and stubborn cellulite were improved in a significant manner (P<0.05) over placebo, on all studied areas. Skin tonicity improved on average by +41% for buttocks, +35% for hips, and +31% for thighs. Orange peel appearance was reduced on average by -25% for buttocks, -22% for hips, and -22% for thighs. Stubborn cellulite was reduced on average by -19% for buttocks, -24% for hips, and -22% for thighs. Circumference measurements decreased in a significant manner (P<0.05) over placebo, for the abdomen (average value of -1.1 cm) and thighs (average value of -0.8 cm). The product was well tolerated and perceived by the volunteers themselves as better performing than placebo on all criteria.

CONCLUSION

All results validate the efficacy of the present integral formulation to significantly reduce signs of cellulite and reshape the silhouette.

Processed Panax ginseng, Sun Ginseng Increases Type I Collagen by Regulating MMP-1 and TIMP-1 Expression in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

In the present study, effects of sun ginseng (SG) on the collagen synthesis and the proliferation of dermal fibroblast were investigated. Collagen synthesis was measured by assaying procollagen type I C-peptide production. In addition, the level of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 was assessed by western blot analysis. SG suppressed the MMP-1 protein level in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, SG dose-dependently increased tissue inhibitors of MMP (TIMP)-1 production in fibroblasts. SG increased type I collagen production directly and/or indirectly by reducing MMP-1 and stimulating TIMP-1 production in human dermal fibroblasts. SG dose-dependently induced fibroblast proliferation and this, in turn, can trigger more collagen production. These results suggest that SG may be a potential pharmacological agent with anti-aging properties in cultured human skin fibroblast.

Adapted Boolean network models for extracellular matrix formation

BACKGROUND

Due to the rapid data accumulation on pathogenesis and progression of chronic inflammation, there is an increasing demand for approaches to analyse the underlying regulatory networks. For example, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease, characterised by joint destruction and perpetuated by activated synovial fibroblasts (SFB). These abnormally express and/or secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines, collagens causing joint fibrosis, or tissue-degrading enzymes resulting in destruction of the extra-cellular matrix (ECM).We applied three methods to analyse ECM regulation: data discretisation to filter out noise and to reduce complexity, Boolean network construction to implement logic relationships, and formal concept analysis (FCA) for the formation of minimal, but complete rule sets from the data.

RESULTS

First, we extracted literature information to develop an interaction network containing 18 genes representing ECM formation and destruction. Subsequently, we constructed an asynchronous Boolean network with biologically plausible time intervals for mRNA and protein production, secretion, and inactivation. Experimental gene expression data was obtained from SFB stimulated by TGFbeta1 or by TNFalpha and discretised thereafter. The Boolean functions of the initial network were improved iteratively by the comparison of the simulation runs to the experimental data and by exploitation of expert knowledge. This resulted in adapted networks for both cytokine stimulation conditions. The simulations were further analysed by the attribute exploration algorithm of FCA, integrating the observed time series in a fine-tuned and automated manner. The resulting temporal rules yielded new contributions to controversially discussed aspects of fibroblast biology (e.g., considerable expression of TNF and MMP9 by fibroblasts stimulation) and corroborated previously known facts (e.g., co-expression of collagens and MMPs after TNFalpha stimulation), but also revealed some discrepancies to literature knowledge (e.g., MMP1 expression in the absence of FOS).

CONCLUSION

The newly developed method successfully and iteratively integrated expert knowledge at different steps, resulting in a promising solution for the in-depth understanding of regulatory pathways in disease dynamics. The knowledge base containing all the temporal rules may be queried to predict the functional consequences of observed or hypothetical gene expression disturbances. Furthermore, new hypotheses about gene relations were derived which await further experimental validation.

Expression of IL-1β, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 on the Pressure Side of Gingiva under Orthodontic Loading

Objectives: To test the hypothesis that orthodontic pressure does not induce gene transcription of IL-1β, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 in pressure gingival soft tissue.

Materials and Methods: A total of 14 male Wistar rats were used with three rats as no appliance controls and another three as the sham appliance group. On the 7th and the 14th day after orthodontic loading on the maxillary left molar, four rats were sacrificed, respectively. Maxillary right first molars served as the contralateral control side. A real-time RT-PCR for the excised gingiva was performed to measure the mRNA of IL-1β, MMP-9, and TIMP-1.

Results: Compared with the contralateral side, IL-1β mRNA from the pressure side significantly increased on the 7th day, then decreased on the 14th day (P &lt; .05). MMP-9 and TIMP-1 mRNA showed a significant constant increase on both the 7th and the 14th day (P &lt; .05).

Conclusions: The hypothesis is rejected. Orthodontic loading led to increases in IL-1β, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 mRNA in pressure side gingiva in rats.

Kaempferia pandurata Roxb. inhibits Porphyromonas gingivalis supernatant-induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression via signal transduction in human oral epidermoid cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kaempferia pandurata Roxb., an edible tropical medicinal plant (Zingiberaceae), has been traditionally used to treat dental caries. However, its efficacy on inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 for preventing periodontal inflammation has been rarely studied to date.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This present study was focused to investigate the effects of the ethanolic extract of Kaempferia pandurata Roxb. on inhibition of Porphyromonas gingivalis supernatant-induced MMP-9 expression through activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways in human oral epidermoid KB cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MMP-9 expression and its signaling pathways in KB cells induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis supernatant were determined by gelatin zymogram, Western blotting and reporter gene assays.

RESULTS

Kaempferia pandurata significantly decreased MMP-9 expression at both protein and mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner. Kaempferia pandurata interfered Porphyromonas gingivalis supernatant-induced MMP-9 expression in KB cells by downregulating MAPK phosphorylation (extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2, p38 kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase), inhibiting transcriptional expression (Elk1, c-Jun and c-Fos), and blocking AP-1 and NF-kappaB activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Kaempferia pandurata could be employed as a candidate for MMP-9 inhibitor with therapeutic potential for treatment of periodontal inflammation.

Lupinus albus, a novel vegetable extract with metalloproteinase inhibitory properties: a potential periodontal therapy

BACKGROUND

In this study we examine the properties of a vegetable extract from seeds of Lupinus albus (LU 105). In previous works we demonstrated that LU 105 reduced the expression, by gingival fibroblasts, of both matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. We decided to study the impact of LU 105 on cell proliferation and morphology. Using organ culture media we also studied the MMP and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (timp) expression AND THE cytokines secretion.

METHODS

Healthy and inflamed gingival biopsies were placed in appendage culture with or without LU 105. The organ culture media were analyzed using Western blottings (MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-13, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2) and gelatine zymography. A reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was also performed on healthy and inflamed gingival biopsies, which were maintained in culture with or without LU 105 0.1%. Then, we decided to determine the amount of cytokines present in the organ culture media such as interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-4, IL-6, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha.

RESULTS

When gingival biopsies derived from inflamed tissues were cultured with LU 105 0.1% in the culture media, the MMP and TIMP expression and activity decreased significantly when compared to cultures without LU 105. Moreover, we did not note any statistical difference in the cell proliferation compared with human gingival fibroblast cultures without LU 105. Furthermore, IL-1 beta, IL-6, TGF-beta, and TNF-alpha amounts in the culture media decreased significantly, whereas IL-4 increased significantly when LU 105 0.1% was added to the culture media.

CONCLUSION

LU 105, a novel metalloproteinase inhibitor with few consequences on cell proliferation and morphology, is a vegetable extract with potential clinical capacity.