Effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on the proliferation of human periodontal ligament cells under simulated microgravity

Objective To evaluate the effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the proliferation of human periodontal ligament fibroblast cells (hPDLF) under simulated microgravity.Methods Subjects were divided into control, simulated microgravity and simulated microgravity with bFGF groups. The primary cells were separated from human periodontal ligament by explants with enzymatic digestion. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium colorimetric assay was used to detect the effects of bFGF with various duration and concentration on proliferation activity of hPDLF under simulated microgravity. Results The proliferation activities of hPDLFs under simulated microgravity for 12 h and 24 h were not significantly different from that of the control, but significant for 48 h and 72 h exposure (t=7. 303, 8. 668, P<0.01). After 48 h exposure the proliferation activity of hPDLFs that with 50-100 μg/L bFGF in simulated microgravity with bFGF group was significantly increased comparing with that of simulated microgravity group (P < 0. 05). But there was no significant difference between two groups when 1-10 μg/L bFGF reached. Conclusions Simulated microgravity may inhibit the proliferation activity of hPDLF after 48 h and 72 h exposure. The concentration of bFGF within 50-100 μg/L may enhance the proliferative responses of hPDLF under simulated microgravity. Key words: Weightlessness simulation;  Fibroblast growth factor 2;  Cell proliferation; Periodontal ligament