Evaluation of osteogenic activity of Plaksha (Ficus lacor Buch. Ham.) stem bark on human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells

The adverse effects and lower efficacy of synthetic drugs have increased scientists' interest in traditional medicine for managing chronic diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, which raise the risk of bone fractures. Herbal medications are increasingly used for joint disorders due to their potential benefits in reducing pain, inflammation, and stiffness, as well as their safety when used correctly. Plaksha (Ficus lacor Buch. Ham) possess a great potential in treating bone disorders. The purpose of the study is to determine the osteogenic effect of stem bark extract of Plaksha on mesenchymal stem cells. Aqueous extract of Plaksha obtained via Soxhlet Apparatus. Mesenchymal stem cells were obtained from human dental pulp; Characterized using Cell Surface Antigen Expression Analysis via Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS). Cytotoxicity assessed with MTT. Osteogenic potential evaluated through trilineage differentiation and gene expression analysis (RT-PCR) for Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and Osteonectin (OSN). Viability assay revealed that the 10 µg/mL concentration helps for trilineage differentiation of cells. Upregulation of ALP and OSN genes via RT-PCR in treated group showed the osteogenic differentiation of cells. This demonstrates the aq. Extract of FL promotes the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and facilitate the osteogenesis. Hence the drug can be used in various bone disorders.