Proteomic Analysis of Fibroblasts Exposed to Resin Composite Release.

Objective: To investigate the potential effects of products released by a resin composite on the proteome of human gingival fibroblasts.

Methods: Fifteen resin composite cylinders of a Bis-GMA-based resin composite (Tetric EvoCeram, Ivoclar) were made and placed in a culture medium for 24 h. Then, 30 mL of this medium was placed for 72 h in contact with human gingival fibroblasts and a second control group consisted of cells placed in culture medium only. Afterward, cells were collected, washed, and their proteins extracted. Three two-dimensional electrophoresis were performed per condition. Image analysis of the gels was carried out to highlight the differential protein spots. These spots were then analyzed by an ESI/qTOF mass spectrometer. Finally, specific databases provided protein identification, their interactions, and the pathways where they are implicated.

Results: Delta2D software allowed the detection of 21 spots of different proteins. The MASCOT identified 28 proteins. Five proteins from four spots were upregulated, 23 proteins from 17 spots were downregulated. The UniProt database showed that all these proteins were involved in cellular architecture, structural modifications and quality control of proteins, cellular homeostasis, and metabolic pathways. The STRING database revealed the interactions between the regulated proteins. The GO enrichment analysis showed that 19 pathways were affected.

Significance: The products released from the resin composite tested led to changes in the fibroblast proteome. Under the conditions of this study, resin composite released products can cause early adverse effects on cells, but without complete inhibition of their cellular functions.