RESUMO
AIM: To evaluate the potential biostimulatory effects of grape seed extract (GSE) on a primary culture of human pulp cells. METHODOLOGY: Human molars were used to obtain the primary pulp cell culture and 0.5-mm dentine discs. For GSE direct exposure, dose-response (0.0065-6.5%) and time response (1-60 min of contact) were examined. For transdentinal exposure, 0.65% of GSE was tested for 24 h. Cellular metabolism, nitric oxide and collagen production, and cell morphology alterations were assessed at periods of 24 and 72 h. After cell differentiation and direct exposure to GSE, the total protein production (TP), alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and formation of mineralization nodules (MN) were assessed. The results were analysed by parametric tests or non-parametric tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The lower concentration of GSE tested (0.0065%) was associated with an increase in cellular metabolism, a reduction in the production of nitric oxide and an increase in extracellular matrix synthesis (collagen). Distinct behaviours were observed for the different concentrations, without a reduction of cellular metabolism >10% compared with the control, either when applied directly or transdentinally. SEM revealed no significant change in cell morphology, except for the positive control (H2 O2 ). There was no difference in TP, ALP or MN between the control group and the group exposed to GSE. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with grape seed extract, even at the highest concentration and longest period, caused neither direct nor transdentinal cytotoxic effects on human pulp cells. Grape seed extract components may play a biostimulatory role and protect dental pulp cells when in direct contact.