Curcumin as a Modulator of Osteogenic Potential in Lipopolysaccharide-Treated Human Periodontal Ligament Cells: An In Vitro Study.

Background Periodontal diseases cause alveolar bone destruction driven by anaerobic bacteria. Their virulence factors disrupt the osteogenic potential of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLCs). Curcumin, a polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and osteogenic properties, holds promise for periodontal regeneration Aim This study evaluated the effects of curcumin on the osteogenic potential of hPDLCs under LPS-induced inflammatory conditions by assessing the expression of osteogenic markers, bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), and osteopontin (OPN). Materials and methods hPDLCs were isolated from premolars and cultured in the presence of LPS (10 µg/mL) to simulate inflammation. Cells were treated with curcumin at 2.5 µM and 5 µM, with and without LPS exposure. Gene expression of BMP-2 and OPN was quantified using qRT-PCR after 21 days of culture. Results LPS significantly suppressed BMP-2 and OPN expression (p < 0.05). Curcumin treatment restored BMP-2 and OPN expression in a dose-dependent manner, with 5 µM curcumin demonstrating the most substantial effects, nearly restoring OPN levels to control values. Conclusion Curcumin mitigates LPS-induced inflammation and enhances hPDLCs' osteogenic differentiation, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic adjunct for periodontal tissue regeneration.