Comparative Evaluation of Cytotoxicity, Anti-inflammatory, and Drug Release Profiles of Allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP Hydrogel: An In Vitro Study.

Abstract

Aim: This study evaluates the cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory effects, and drug release profiles of an allicin-incorporated graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle (GO-AgNP) hydrogel as an intracanal medicament.

Materials and methods: The allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP hydrogel was synthesized and characterized using transmission electron microscopy. Human periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts were used for 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide cytotoxicity assays, assessing cell viability at 10, 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL concentrations over 24, 48, and 72 hours. Anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by analyzing interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cells via quantitative polymerase chain reaction at 24 hours and 7 days. Drug release was assessed using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry over 168 hours in root canal-treated teeth.

Results: The allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP hydrogel exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxicity, with cell viability exceeding 90% at 10-20 µg/mL but decreasing significantly at 50-100 µg/mL (p < 0.05). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration was approximately 45 µg/mL. Anti-inflammatory assays showed a reduction in IL-6 (45%), IL-8 (38%), and TNF-α (42%) compared with the LPS-treated control (p < 0.05). Drug release analysis revealed a sustained release pattern, with the 20 µg/mL hydrogel demonstrating a higher cumulative release than the 10 µg/mL hydrogel.

Conclusion: The allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP hydrogel demonstrates potential as a biocompatible intracanal medicament with anti-inflammatory properties and controlled drug release. Further optimization is required for clinical application.

Clinical significance: This allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP hydrogel shows promise as an intracanal medicament due to its biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory properties, and controlled drug release. By modulating the inflammatory response, it may contribute to reduced postoperative discomfort and improved periapical healing. Additionally, its bioactive properties may support tissue repair and regeneration, making it a potential candidate for regenerative endodontic procedures. How to cite this article: Piriyanga R, Ranjan M, Bathla S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Cytotoxicity, Anti-inflammatory, and Drug Release Profiles of Allicin-incorporated GO-AgNP Hydrogel: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(1):71-76.