Production of TNF-𝛼 by macrophages stimulated with endodontic pathogens and its effect on the biological properties of stem cells of the apical papilla.

Objectives: The first objective of the present study was to investigate TNF-𝛼 secretion by macrophages stimulated with endodontic pathogens and bacterial cell surface components. The second objective was to assess the in vitro effects of TNF-𝛼 on periostin, cytokine, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion by and the viability, proliferation rate, and mineralization potential of stem cells of the apical papilla (SCAP).

Methods: TNF-𝛼 secretion by macrophages stimulated with either endodontic pathogens or bacterial surface components was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).