IL-1ß and IL-8 Production From Primary Tooth Pulp Fibroblasts

After the exposal of the pulp tissue, cytokines are produced, playing a role in the regulation of the pulp inflammatory response. However, the literature lacks information on the participation of primary tooth fibroblasts in this process. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to verify the participation of human primary tooth pulp fibroblasts in the inflammatory process, evaluating the production of IL-1ß and IL-8 from these cells. Methods: Pulp capping materials were applied as conditioned media on cell cultures, divided in the following groups: negative control (fresh culture medium); positive control (bacterial lipopolysaccharide – LPS); calcium hydroxide (powder); mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA); adhesive resin; diluted formocresol. After 24 hours in contact with the cells, the conditioned media were removed, the proteins extracted from the cells and IL-1ß and IL-8 quantified by ELISA. Data were analyzed by ANOVA (p<0.05) and Tukey's test (p<0.05). Results: It was observed that calcium hydroxide has stimulated the production of IL-1ß, without stimulating IL-8. On the other hand, the adhesive resin and formocresol has stimulated the production of IL-8, and have not stimulated IL-1ß. MTA has stimulated both cytokines, but in an intermediate level when compared to the other materials. Conclusions: It was concluded that primary tooth fibroblasts can respond immunologically, by the production of IL-1ß and IL-8, and different pulp capping materials can help in the modulation of this process.