Biochemical and X-ray micro-computed tomographic analyses of critical size bone defects grafted with autogenous bone and mercerized bacterial cellulose membranes salified with alendronate

ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the repair of critical-sized bone defects grafted with autogenous bone and mercerized bacterial cellulose membranes (BCm) salified with alendronate (ALN).MethodsForty-eight male Wistar rats underwent surgery to create a 5 mm-diameter bone defect in the calvarium. The removed bone was particularized, regrafted into the defect, and covered by a BCm according to the group: control group (CG), simply mercerized BCm; group 1 (G1), negatively charged BCm (BCm-CM^-) salified with ALN; and group 2 (G2), positively charged BCm (BCm-DEAE⁺) salified with ALN. Serum samples were collected preoperatively and before euthanasia to analyze osteoprotegerin (OPG), parathyroid hormone (PTH), sclerostin (SOST), and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels. The animals were euthanized after 15 or 60 d. Calvaria were analyzed using quantitative microtomography (μCT).ResultsThere was an increased level of PTH in the CG compared to the G2 group, at day 60 (p = 0.019). When analyzing the same group over time, G1 presented an increased FGF23 level on days 15 and 60 (p < 0.05). CG presented an increase in PTH (p = 0.037) at day 60. The μCT analysis detected increased trabecular separation on day 15 in G2 compared to G1 (p = 0.040).ConclusionsSalification of ionized BCm with ALN had no direct effect on bone repair; however, BCm-CM^- increased the levels of FGF23 over time. BCm-DEAE⁺ decreased PTH levels compared to mercerized BCm. BCm-CM-salified with ALN-induced superior bone quality, with respect to trabecular separation, compared to BCm-DEAE⁺.     

Analysis of the nano and microstructures of the cervical cementum and saliva in periodontitis: A pilot study

ObjectivesDuring the progression of periodontitis, the structures of the cementum and saliva are altered due to pathological changes in the environment. This study aimed to analyze the nanostructures of the cervical cementum and saliva in patients with periodontitis.MethodsPatients with periodontitis (n = 10) and periodontally healthy controls (n = 8) were included. Single-rooted teeth with indications for extraction were obtained from individuals. The cervical-thirds of the roots were sectioned transversely to obtain 1 mm thick sections. Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected from each individual. The nanostructures of the cementum and saliva were analyzed using small and wide-angle X-ray scattering methods.ResultsThe mean radius and distance values of the cementum nanoparticles in the periodontitis and control groups were 368 Å and 1152 Å, and 377 Å and 1186 Å, respectively. The mean radius and distance values of the saliva nanoparticles in the periodontitis and control groups were 425 Å and 1359 Å, and 468 Å and 1452 Å, respectively. More wide-angle X-ray scattering profile peaks were observed in the cementum of the controls. Similarities were observed between the 3D profiles of the cementum and the saliva nanoparticles.ConclusionsAccording to the results of the present study, (i) the cementum and saliva nanoparticles were of similar size in periodontitis and healthy controls, (ii) the cementum was more crystalline according to the (002) crystallographic plane in controls, and (iii) the similarities in the 3D-profile of the cementum and saliva nanoparticles suggest some interactions between them in the sulcus/periodontal pocket at the nanolevel.     

Histological,immunohistochemical and radiographic evaluation of Amitriptyline administration on the periodontium of albino rats (An experimental study)

BackgroundAmitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant drug accustomed to treat depressive disorders. It recorded many side effects on different tissues.ObjectiveTo investigate reaction of Albino rats’ periodontium after oral administration of Amitriptyline histologically and radiographically.MethodsFourteen adult male albino rats (150–200 g) were divided into two groups, control and experimental. Rats of experimental group received 10 mg?kg?day of Amitriptyline hydrochloride by oral gavage for four weeks. Mandibles were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and anti-osteopontin (Anti-OPN) immunohistochemistry staining. Bone mineral density was measured in mandibular alveolar bone. Statistical analysis for Anti-OPN and relative Hounsfield unit value (HU value) was performed using independent-samples t-test.ResultsGingiva of experimental group showed epithelial degeneration with pyknotic nuclei and disintegration in lamina propria. Areas of separation in alveolar bone and degeneration of some regions in cementum were seen with apparent increase in periodontal ligament (PDL) thickness and its detachment from bone and cementum at some regions. Immunohistochemical examination of experimental group showed apparently increased immunopositivity in gingiva, cementocytes, osteocytes, cementum, bone matrices, fibroblasts and PDL fibers when compared to control group. Statistical analysis revealed insignificant difference of Anti-OPN area% in gingiva between both studied groups. While there was statistical significant increase of Anti-OPN area% in the other periodontium tissues and high statistical significant decrease of relative HU value in experimental group when compared to control.ConclusionsAmitriptyline has destructive effect on periodontal tissues and statistically increases the expression of Anti-OPN in all periodontal tissues except gingiva and decreases bone mineral density.     

Conditioned-medium of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth prevent apoptosis of neural progenitors

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective ability of the conditioned medium of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (CM-SHED) to prevent glutamate-induced apoptosis of neural progenitors.Materials and methodsNeural progenitors were isolated from two-day-old rat brains, and the conditioned medium was obtained from a mesenchymal stem cell SHED. Four groups were examined: neural progenitor cells cultured in neurobasal medium with (N + ) and without (N-) glutamate and glycine, and neural progenitor cells cultured in CM-SHED with (K + ) and without (K-) glutamate and glycine.ResultsThe expression of GABA A1 receptor (GABAAR1) messenger RNA (mRNA) in neural progenitor measured by real-time quantitative PCR. GABA contents were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, whereas the apoptosis markers caspase-3 and 7-aminoactinomycin D were analysed with a Muse® cell analyzer. The viability of neural progenitor cells in the K + group (78.05 %) was higher than the control group N- (73.22 %) and lower in the N + group (68.90 %) than in the control group. The K + group showed the highest GABA content, which significantly differed from that in the other groups, whereas the lowest content was observed in the N + group. The expression level of GABAAR1 mRNA in the K + group was the highest compared to that in the other groups. CM-SHED potently protected the neural progenitors from apoptosis.ConclusionsCM-SHED may effectively prevent glutamate-induced apoptosis of neural progenitors.     

The influence of periodontal status and serum biomarkers on salivary leptin levels in systemic lupus erythematosus patients

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the influence of periodontal status, clinical data, and serum markers on salivary leptin levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).MethodsA case–control study was conducted with 38 patients with SLE and 29 healthy controls. Periodontal data included periodontal probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and gingival bleeding on probing (BOP). Stimulated saliva samples were collected to analyze salivary leptin levels. Clinical and serum data were collected from the SLE group. Statistical analysis included the t-test, Mann–Whitney test, Spearman correlation coefficient, and a structural equation model.ResultsThe SLE group had a lower salivary leptin level than the control group (P = 0.002). The model revealed that SLE had an inverse and independent effect on salivary leptin (standardized estimate =  ? 0.289, P = 0.023). Moreover, salivary leptin level negatively correlated with the serum levels of triglyceride, creatinine, and leukocytes, positively correlated with the serum total cholesterol, but was not significantly correlated with the periodontal status.ConclusionThese findings suggest that patients with SLE have a lower salivary leptin level. In addition, the level of salivary leptin does not appear to be related to periodontal status in patients with SLE.     

Tooth-level predictors of tooth loss and exposed bone after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to identify tooth-level risk factors for use during preradiation dental care management to predict risk of tooth failure (tooth lost or declared hopeless) and exposed bone after radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC).MethodsThe authors conducted a prospective observational multicenter cohort study of 572 patients receiving RT for HNC. Participants were examined by calibrated examiners before RT and then every 6 months until 2 years after RT. Analyses considered time to tooth failure and chance of exposed bone at a tooth location.ResultsThe following pre-RT characteristics predicted tooth failure within 2 years after RT: hopeless teeth not extracted pre-RT (hazard ratio [HR], 17.1; P < .0001), untreated caries (HR, 5.0; P < .0001), periodontal pocket 6 mm or greater (HR, 3.4; P = .001) or equaling 5 mm (HR, 2.2; P = .006), recession over 2 mm (HR, 2.8; P = .002), furcation score of 2 (HR, 3.3; P = .003), and any mobility (HR, 2.2; P = .008). The following pre-RT characteristics predicted occurrence of exposed bone at a tooth location: hopeless teeth not extracted before RT (risk ratio [RR], 18.7; P = .0002) and pocket depth 6 mm or greater (RR, 5.4; P = .003) or equaling 5 mm (RR, 4.7; P = .016). Participants with exposed bone at the site of a pre-RT dental extraction averaged 19.6 days between extraction and start of RT compared with 26.2 days for participants without exposed bone (P = .21).ConclusionsIndividual teeth with the risk factors identified in this study should be considered for extraction before RT for HNC, with adequate healing time before start of RT.Practical ImplicationsThe findings of this trial will facilitate evidence-based dental management of the care of patients receiving RT for HNC. This clinical trial was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov. The registration number is NCT02057510.     

Regeneration processes of alveolar bone and microvascular changes after the application of platelet-rich fibrin

ObjectivesPlatelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a promising agent for bone regeneration (BR). Platelets contain several growth factors that promote angiogenesis and BR. In this study, we observed the morphology of alveolar BR.MethodsPRF (Advanced PRF: A-PRF) was prepared by extracting 10 mL of blood from each dog in a collection tube before tooth extraction. The samples were centrifuged at 200 × g for 8 min and incubated for 10 min to allow clotting. The alveolar socket on the dentition's right side was densely filled with PRF. The opposite side, which did not receive PRF, served as the control group. Different methods were used for specimen preparation and observation. Sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin were observed under a light microscope. Bone specimens were observed using stereoscopic microscopy. The resin cast models were examined using a scanning electron microscope. Moreover, bone formation ratio and height were measured.ResultsFourteen days postoperatively, angiogenesis and bone deposition were more advanced in the PRF group than in the control group. Thirty days postoperatively, both groups developed porous bone. In the PRF group, new bone trabeculae (BT) and a network of blood vessels were formed in the bone marrow. Ninety days postoperatively, the resin cast showed a normal bone structure with BT and bone marrow. Thick BT were observed in the PRF group.ConclusionsGrowth factors in PRF stimulate microcirculation and promote angiogenesis and bone deposition. The benefits of PRF include safety and increased bone formation.     

The effect of Rutin hydrate on Glucocorticoids induced osteoporosis in mandibular alveolar bone in Albino rats (Radiological,histological and histochemical study)

BackgroundGlucocorticoids are used in different conditions such as autoimmune disorders and organ transplantation and their administration is the most common cause of secondary osteoporosis. Rutin is a flavonoid found in many plants. Flavonoids are natural products with various therapeutic and biological effects.ObjectiveIs to investigate the effect of Rutin Hydrate as a form of Rutin on glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis in mandibular alveolar bone radiologically, histologically and histochemically.MethodsTwenty-one adult male Albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. Group I (control), group II (osteoporotic) and group III (Rutin Hydrate treated). In both group II and III rats received 21 mg/kg of methylprednisolone daily for four weeks. Then group III received 50 mg/kg of rutin hydrate in distilled water daily for another four weeks. At the end of the experiment, mandibles were dissected for radiographic assessment, then processed for histological and histochemical examination and statistical analysis.ResultsRadiologically, administration of Rutin Hydrate was able to enhance bone density than osteoporotic group. Histological examination revealed preserved cortical bone thickness that had been statistically proved. Apparently normal sized marrow cavities, some plump osteoblasts and normal osteocytes were seen in group III. Histochemical examination showed statistical increase in the area percentage of newly formed collagen in group III than group II.ConclusionsRutin Hydrate was able to modify the radiological and histological picture of osteoporotic alveolar bone. This was achieved by the ability of Rutin Hydrate to increase bone density, preserve cortical plates thickness and enhance new collagen formation that was proved histochemically.     

Vitamin C and eggshell membrane facilitate orthodontic tooth movement and induce histological changes in the periodontal tissue

ObjectivesCollagen remodeling of the periodontal tissue is an important mechanism that involves several biologically active substances to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. It is known that Vitamin C (VC) enhances collagen production and induces tooth movement. Moreover, the eggshell membrane (ESM) is an integral component of various formulations used to promote wound healing. The purpose of our study was to determine the effects of combined treatment with VC and ESM on periodontal tissues during tooth movement.MethodsNine-week-old male osteogenic disorder Shionogi rats were randomized into four groups: control, VC, ESM, and VC + ESM. The control group was given tap water, and the VC, ESM, and VC + ESM groups were orally administered 0.1% VC solution, 1 wt% ESM solution, and a combination of 0.1 wt% VC and 1 wt% ESM solutions, respectively. A force of 25 or 75 g was applied for 10 days to produce orthodontic tooth movement. Distances of tooth movement were measured on days 3, 7, and 10 of treatment. Histological examination of the periodontal ligament was performed to determine the increase in type I and III collagen levels in response to treatment.ResultsDistances of tooth movement were significantly greater in the VC + ESM group than in the control group. The compression area of the alveolar bone showed increased osteoclastic activity and higher levels of bone resorption in the VC + ESM group. Expression levels of type I and III collagen in the tension area of the alveolar bone were higher in the VC + ESM group than in the control group.ConclusionsThis study revealed that the combined administration of VC and ESM accelerated tooth movement by protecting the periodontal tissue during orthodontic treatment. The combined clinical application of VC and ESM could potentially shorten orthodontic treatment time.     

Autism spectrum disorder and periodontitis risk: A cohort study of 38,203 adolescents

BackgroundPeople with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have poor oral health status because they often experience challenges with daily oral hygiene and have inadequate access to oral health care services. This study explored periodontitis risk in adolescents with ASD compared with those who did not have a diagnosis of ASD.MethodsData from 2001 through December 31, 2011 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database on 3,473 adolescents with ASD and 34,730 age- and sex-matched people who did not have a diagnosis of ASD were obtained, and subsequent periodontitis was identified from enrollment through December 31, 2011.ResultsAdolescents with ASD (hazard ratio, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.84 to 2.20) were more likely to develop periodontitis at follow-up than those who did not have a diagnosis of ASD. Findings remained consistent in subanalyses stratified by sex and intellectual disability. People with ASD had periodontitis onset at an earlier mean (SD) age than those who did not have a diagnosis of ASD (17.97 [3.12] vs 21.86 [2.28] years; P < .001).ConclusionsASD is an independent risk factor for subsequent periodontitis development.Practical ImplicationsOral health should be closely monitored in adolescents with ASD. Future investigation of the common pathogenesis between periodontitis and ASD is warranted.     

Correlation between the relative abundance of oral bacteria and Candida albicans in denture and dental plaques

ObjectivesThe opportunistic fungus Candida albicans is a component of denture plaque and is associated with denture-related stomatitis. Inter-kingdom interactions between C. albicans and bacteria exist in such multi-species biofilms, which may affect the microbial composition of the plaque. This study was performed to investigate the bacterial composition of denture plaques, and the correlation between the relative abundance of these bacteria and C. albicans.MethodsThirty denture plaque and 16 dental plaque samples were collected from 18 denture wearers (mean age, 80.3 years). After DNA extraction, a meta 16S rDNA amplicon library was constructed using PCR primers targeting the V3–V4 hypervariable region of bacteria. The amplicon was evaluated by high-throughput sequencing, followed by bacterial population analysis. The concentrations of both C. albicans DNA and total bacterial DNA were determined by real-time PCR. The correlation between the relative abundance of each bacterial genus and C. albicans was analyzed through Spearman's rank correlation.ResultsThe genera Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Rothia, and Corynebacterium were found to be more abundant in dentures than in dental plaques. The predominant bacteria in healthcare-associated pneumonia also inhabited denture surfaces. C. albicans was positively correlated with three acidogenic bacteria and negatively correlated with Leptotrichia and pathogens associated with periodontitis and endocarditis.ConclusionsDentures may be significant reservoirs of pathogens causing aspiration pneumonia. Bacteria showing negative correlation with C. albicans, such as Leptotrichia, may be useful for controlling the growth of C. albicans in antifungal therapies.     

Calcium ions and vitamin B12 are growth factors for Porphyromonas gingivalis

BackgroundPorphyromonas gingivalis is a causative agent of chronic periodontitis. Standard strains of P. gingivalis, such as W83 and ATCC 33277, proliferate in minimal medium when protein is added as the energy source and hemin and menadione are added as growth factors. Nevertheless, minimal medium containing bovine serum albumin sometimes fails to support growth.HighlightsThe proliferation of two W83 strains and seven ATCC 33277 strains in various minimal media was investigated. Previously, we determined that calcium chloride (CaCl₂) was a growth factor for W83NM, a W83 strain. In this study, we found that vitamin B₁₂ enhanced the proliferation of W83NM in a minimal medium with cultures from the fourth passage but not from the first to the third passage. Therefore, using fourth-passage cultures, we assessed the proliferation of two W83 and seven ATCC 33277 strains in minimal media and the effects of CaCl₂ and vitamin B₁₂. Surprisingly, the nine P. gingivalis strains all differed with respect to their proliferation in minimal media, and protein products used as energy sources showed product-to-product and lot-to-lot heterogeneity. Even though strains or protein products were different, we found CaCl₂-dependent growth in nine strains and vitamin B₁₂-dependent growth in seven strains.ConclusionThese results suggest that calcium ions and vitamin B₁₂ are novel growth factors for P. gingivalis.     

Toward the use of Boesenbergia rotunda extracts and the chalcone panduratin A to treat periodontitis

Novel affordable medications are needed to treat chronic periodontitis, which is one of the most common dental pathologies worldwide. Extracts prepared from the rhizome of the medicinal plant Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf., commonly known as fingerroot, are used to treat a variety of human pathologies. These extracts contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including the chalcone derivative panduratin A (Pa-A), which is the lead compound of a series of analogues, designated panduratins A to Y. The anti-inflammatory properties of the extracts of B. rotunda and the most abundant bioactive products found in these extracts (including Pa-A, 4-hydroxyoanduratin, isopanduratin, and others) have been reviewed. A standardized extract of the plant has promising utility in the treatment of gingival inflammation. The effects are characterized by three actions: (i) a direct antimicrobial effect against fungi and oral pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, (ii) a marked anti-inflammatory effect via a reduced production of mediators, like prostaglandin E2 and different interleukins, and (iii) a dual bone-preserving effect, with a reduction in bone resorption and an increase in bone formation. Acting as a protease inhibitor, Pa-A is one of the main active ingredients of the extract, implicated in these actions. A Pa-A-standardized extract of B. rotunda has been used in humans for treating dyspepsia. The product is safe and well-tolerated. The development of panduratin-containing dental products, for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis, has been proposed. The structural analogues, Pa-A to-Y, should also be investigated for the treatment of dental inflammation.     

Proanthocyanidin encapsulation for sustained bioactivity in dentin bioadhesion: A two-year study

ObjectivesTo determine the long-term effect on the stability of dentin-resin interfaces after the addition of polylactide (PLA) capsules containing proanthocyanidin (PAC) to adhesive resin.MethodsSub-micron (SM) and micron (M) size capsules containing PACs were produced using a combination of emulsification and solvent evaporation techniques and characterized. Human dentin surfaces (n = 8) were etched (35% glycolic acid) and primed (15% enriched Vitis vinifera extract solution - VV_e), followed by the application of an experimental adhesive containing 0 (control), 1.5 wt% of SM or M PAC-filled PLA capsules light cured for 40 s. A crown was built using commercial composite. After 24 h-immersion (37 °C) in simulated body fluid, specimens were serially sectioned into resin-dentin beams. Microtensile bond strength (TBS), micro-permeability and fracture pattern were assessed immediately and after 1 and 2 years. Data were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA and post-hoc test (α = 0.05).ResultsPolydisperse capsules were manufactured with average diameter of 0.36 µm and 1.08 µm for SM and M, respectively. The addition of capsules did not affect TBS (p = 0.889). After 2 years, TBS significantly decreased in SM (p = 0.006), whereas M showed similar initial values (p = 0.291). Overall, less micro-permeability was found in M than the control and SM group (p < 0.001). After 2 years, fractured surfaces from capsule-containing groups failed within the adhesive layer while control fractured at the bottom of the hybrid layer.SignificanceThe addition of PAC-filled PLA microcapsules in a dental adhesive did not affect the bond strength while increased and sustained the protection against micro-permeability in the interface, likely due to release of PACs.     

Osteoclast formation from mouse bone marrow cells on micro/nano-scale patterned surfaces

ObjectivesOsteoclasts can sense the surface topography of materials. However, it is difficult to identify the structural factors that affect osteoclast formation and its function. Furthermore, we hypothesized that the type of osteoclast precursor cells also affects osteoclastogenesis in the materials. In this study, we investigated the effects of defined micro/nanoscale patterns on osteoclastogenesis from bone marrow cells (BMCs).MethodsVarious cyclo-olefin polymer (COP) patterns were prepared using nanoimprinting. The effects of shape, size, and height of the patterns, and the wettability of the patterned surfaces on osteoclastogenesis from BMCs were evaluated in vitro.ResultsOsteoclast formation was promoted on pillars (diameter, 1 μm or 500 nm; height, 500 nm). Notably, osteoclastogenesis from BMCs was better promoted on hydrophobic pillars than on hydrophilic pillars. In contrast, decreased osteoclast formation was observed on the nanopillars (diameter, 100 nm; height, 200 nm).ConclusionsWe demonstrated the promotion of osteoclast formation from BMCs on hydrophobic pillars with diameters of 1 μm and 500 nm. Some cellular behaviors in the patterns were dependent on the type of osteoclast precursor cells. The designed patterns are useful for designing the surface of dental implants or bone replacement materials with a controllable balance between osteoblast and osteoclast activities.     

Periodontal tissue regeneration by recombinant human collagen peptide granules applied with β-tricalcium phosphate fine particles

ObjectivesRecombinant human collagen peptide (RCP) is a recombinantly created xeno-free biomaterial enriched in arginine-glycine-aspartic acid sequences with good processability whose use for regenerative medicine applications is under investigation. The biocompatibility and osteogenic ability of RCP granules combined with β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) submicron particles (β-TCP/RCP) were recently demonstrated. In the present study, β-TCP/RCP was implanted into experimental periodontal tissue defects created in beagles to investigate its regenerative effects.MethodsAn RCP solution was lyophilized, granulated, and thermally cross-linked into particles approximately 1 mm in diameter. β-TCP dispersion (1 wt%; 500 μL) was added to 100 mg of RCP granules to form β-TCP/RCP. A three-walled intrabony defect (5 mm × 3 mm × 4 mm) was created on the mesial side of the mandibular first molar and filled with β-TCP/RCP.ResultsA micro-computed tomography image analysis performed at 8 weeks postoperative showed a significantly greater amount of new bone after β-TCP/RCP grafting (2.2-fold, P < 0.05) than after no grafting. Histological findings showed that the transplanted β-TCP/RCP induced active bone-like tissue formation including tartaric acid-resistant acid phosphatase– and OCN-positive cells as well as bioabsorbability. Ankylosis did not occur, and periostin-positive periodontal ligament-like tissue formation was observed. Histological measurements performed at 8 weeks postoperative revealed that β-TCP/RCP implantation formed 1.7-fold more bone-like tissue and 2.1-fold more periodontal ligament-like tissue than the control condition and significantly suppressed gingival recession and epithelial downgrowth (P < 0.05).Conclusionsβ-TCP/RCP implantation promoted bone-like and periodontal ligament–like tissue formation, suggesting its efficacy as a periodontal tissue regenerative material.     

Assessment of the possible ameliorative effect of curcumin nanoformulation on the submandibular salivary gland of alloxan-induced diabetes in a rat model (Light microscopic and ultrastructural study)

BackgroundNowadays, attention is directed to herbal treatments in an attempt to lessen the adverse effects of diabetes. Nanoformulation of curcumin (NC) was shown to enhance stability and water solubility compared to native curcumin.ObjectiveTo examine the effect of different NC concentrations on the histopathological structure of the submandibular salivary gland of diabetic rats.Methods28 rats were divided equally into 4 groups. Group I: Control group, Group II (diabetic), III (diabetic + nanocurcumin low dose), and IV (diabetic + nanocurcumin high dose): Rats of groups II, III and IV were injected with a single dose of alloxan (140 mg/kg) to induce diabetes. After 7 days, groups III and IV were treated for 6 weeks with NC (100 mg/kg/day) for group III, and (200 mg/kg/day) for group IV. Submandibular salivary glands were assessed histologically, immunohistochemically using α smooth muscle actin (α SMA) and ultrastructurally.ResultsDiabetic samples showed destruction of parenchymal elements of the gland, with thick fiber bundles encircling the excretory ducts and minimal reaction for α SMA. Amelioration of the gland's architecture was detected in groups III and IV with reduction of collagen deposition and elevation of positive immunoreactivity to α SMA.ConclusionNC profoundly repaired the induced diabetic histopathological and ultrastructural alterations of the gland in a dose dependent manner.