Ionizing Radiation Alters the Levels of Inflammatory Cytokines in Human Gingiva Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

Background: Cell therapy using gingiva derived mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) is of high interest because of their intrinsic immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. However, there is presently sparse literature on the influence of irradiation on the cellular and inflammatory markers secretion GMSCs. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the cellular and secretion levels of selected inflammatory cytokines in GMSCs following irradiation. Methodology: Primary culture of GMSCs was established and irradiated with single doses of 0, 0.5, 2 and 5 Gy. Cellular morphology, viability, proliferation rate, population doubling time (PDT), colony-forming ability, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-6s after exposure to X-ray were analysed. The selected cytokines are known to be important in initiation and maintenance of inflammatory processes. Results: Cellular morphology, viability, proliferation rate and PDT were not markedly altered by ionising radiation at 0.5 and 2 Gy exposure. However, a loss of viability, proliferative capacity and colony formation was observed after irradiation at 5 Gy. Notably, irradiated GMSCs showed moderate to higher levels of IL-2 and IL-6 secretion compared to control group. Conclusion: The data suggested that ionising radiation at increasing doses induced cellular changes in GMSCs along with enhanced secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Further evidence is required for supporting the application of GMSCs in radiation therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]