Effects of combustible cigarettes and electronic nicotine delivery systems on the regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells derived from periodontal ligament (PDL-MSCs).

INTRODUCTION: Periodontal ligament-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDL-MSCs) are promising cells with crucial roles in maintaining and repairing periodontal tissue. However, their regenerative capacity can be influenced by various factors, including cigarette smoke and electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) aerosols. Smoking and vaping can impair their regenerative potential, and even though ENDS are perceived as safer tobacco products, there is a lack of evidence to guarantee this assumption. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Changes in the viability and proliferation of PDL-MSCs will be investigated after smoke and aerosol generation and cell exposure. In addition, the effects of smoke and aerosols on the immunomodulatory capacity of PDL-MSCs co-cultured with T lymphocytes will be further determined via the evaluation of cytokine profiles and flow cytometry analysis of T-cell phenotypes. RESULTS: Combustible cigarettes (CCs) induced more severe impairment in the viability and proliferation of PDL-MSCs compared with ENDS. Also, CCs promoted a proinflammatory immune response that could cause tissue damage to progress. On the other hand, ENDS had the potential to generate an immunosuppressive response that would prevent further cell decay. DISCUSSION: The regenerative capacity of PDL-MSCs decreased after treatment with both cigarette smoke and ENDS-aerosols. Even though the results demonstrate less severe effects with ENDS, further research is essential to evaluate their safety and impact on the capacity of PDL-MSCs to prevent and restore oral injuries caused by chronic exposure to aerosols.