Abstract
The potential toxicity of universal adhesives, which contain various monomers, solvents and fillers is a significant research topic. This study aims to investigate the toxicity and effects of universal adhesives on dentin matrix proteins (DMP-1), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-8), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), and cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1)] in pulp cell lines. Six universal adhesives [Gluma Bond Universal (GBU), Prime&Bond Universal (PBU), Clearfil S3 Universal Bond (CS3UB), OptiBond Universal (OBU), G-2 Bond Universal (G2BU) and Bond Force II (BFII)] were assessed using MTT and ELISA cytotoxicity tests. The data obtained from MTT and ELISA tests were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The 1:1 extracts of BFII and GBU showed higher cell viability at 24 and 48 h compared to PBU, CS3B, OBU, and G2B adhesives (p < 0.001), and furthermore, the 1:1 extracts of GBU showed statistically the highest cell viability at 72 h (p < 0.001). The universal adhesives tested showed a significant decrease in TIMP-1 in pulp cells (p < 0.05), while TNF-α, IL-1, DMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-8 levels did not change significantly. The tested adhesives exhibited varying degrees of cytotoxic effects depending on time and dose. The results indicate that the composition of these adhesives plays a crucial role in their cytotoxicity and impact on pulp cell viability. The amount and duration of adhesive application should be carefully regulated to maintain biocompatibility and ensure safe usage.