International Journal of Hematology and Oncology 2023, Vol 33, Num 4 Page(s): 149-156
Ionizing Radiation Induces Cytokines, MMP-1, TIMP-1 and Supresses Type I Collagen mRNA Expressions in Human Gingival Fibroblasts

Guler YAVAS1, Cagdas YAVAS2, S. Buket BOZKURT3, Ozlem ATA4, Sema HAKKI5

1Selcuk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, Konya, TURKEY
2Konya Training and Research Hospital, Department of Radiation Oncology, Konya, TURKEY
3Selcuk University, Faculty of Dentistry, Research Centre, Konya, TURKEY
4Selcuk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Oncology, Konya, TURKEY
5Selcuk University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Periodontology, Konya, TURKEY

Keywords: Gingival fibroblast, Ionizing radiation, Oral mucositis, Proinflammatory cytokines
We aimed to evaluate the effects of ionizing radiation on the proliferation of gingival fibroblasts and the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and type I collagen (type I Col) mRNA transcripts. Gingival fibroblasts were treated with radiation doses as follows; 0.5 Gy, 1 Gy, 2 Gy, 4 Gy, 6 Gy, and 8 Gy. Expression of interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, IL-8 and, MMP-1, TIMP-1 and of type I Col mRNA transcripts in human gingival fibroblasts was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Morphology of gingival fibroblasts was evaluated using inverted microscope. Ionizing radiation decreased cell proliferation (p< 0.05) compared to the control group. Expressions of IL-1 ß, IL-6 and IL-8 were stimulated at the highest dosage of radiation (p< 0.001). In parallel to proinflammtory cytokines, MMP-1 and TIMP-1 mRNA expressions were elevated in response to higher dosage of radiation (p< 0.001). Radiation suppressed type I Col mRNA expression in response to all doses at 24 hrs (p< 0.001). In addition to basal epithelial cells of the oral mucosa, gingival fibroblasts have an important role in the pathogenesis of oral mucositis. Results of this study may help to clarify the role of gingival fibroblasts in radiation induced oral mucositis.