Effect of different storage media on root dentine composition and viability of fibroblasts evaluated by several assay methods.

AIM: To perform multiparametric analysis of the effects of soya milk (SM), whole milk (WM) and Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) on the viability of fibroblasts (HGF). The study also aimed to evaluate the influence of these solutions on bovine root dentine according to OH- and PO43- on the surface.

METHODOLOGY: The HGF cytotoxicity was determined according to XTT, NR and SRB assays at 1, 3 and 6 h. Root dentine fragments were assessed by Fourier infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer before and after immersion in the solutions for the same periods. The positive control group included cells and tooth fragments maintained in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), and the negative control included tooth fragments that were kept dry. Data were analysed using anova and Tukey's test.

RESULTS: No significant difference was found in cell viability evaluated by XTT (P > 0.05). Using the NR assay, WM and HBSS had significantly lower cell viability compared to the positive control group at 6 h (P < 0.05). SM had similar cell viability to the positive control group at all periods evaluated when assessed using all three tests (P > 0.05). A significant difference was found in values of OH- for the negative control group at 1 h (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS: Soya milk promoted better cell viability, whereas on dentine composition, the solutions behaved similarly. The association of different assay methods is promising for improving cell viability analysis. The 1-h time-point is a crucial factor in the prognosis of dental replantation because the teeth remain more hydrated and help maintain cell viability.