Effects of Thai Kaempferia Parviflora Extract on Human Gingival Fibroblasts: An in vitro Study of Wound Healing

Abstract

Aim: Gingival fibroblasts are key players in oral wound healing as they migrate to the wound and produce extracellular matrix. Although contemporary methods can enhance healing, there is ongoing interest in alternative medicine due to its accessibility. Kaempferia parviflora, a traditional Thai herb, has been comprehensively studied for its pharmacological properties; however, its specific roles in wound healing remain to be explored. Thus, our study aimed to investigate the effects of K. parviflora extract (KPE) on the proliferation, migration, and collagen production of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Methods: HGFs were treated with 0.46-7.5 mg/mL KPE, followed by determination of cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on days 1, 3, 5, and 7, and cell migration was assessed using scratch assay at 12, 24, and 48 h. Collagen production was analyzed by picrosirius red staining and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) on days 7, 14, and 21. Results: At 0.46 mg/mL, KPE induced cell proliferation in HGFs on days 3, 5, and 7, whereas higher concentrations were cytotoxic to HGFs. This concentration also enhanced cell migration at all time points, whereas higher doses hampered this process. KPE at 0.46 mg/mL stimulated collagen production and upregulated the expressions of COL3A1 and COL1A1 genes on day 14, although these levels were decreased by day 21. Conclusions: KPE could promote proliferation, migration, and collagen production in HGFs, demonstrating its potential use as an adjunctive treatment for oral wounds. Nevertheless, establishing a safety margin is crucial before clinical application due to the possibility of cytotoxicity at higher concentrations.