Magnesium-Containing Calcium Silicate Sealer Modulates Bioactive Gene Expression in iPDLCs.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the cytocompatibility and transcriptional bioactivity profile of a calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer containing magnesium, in comparison with two widely used bioactive sealers, on immortalized human periodontal ligament stem cells (iPDLCs). METHODS: Disc-shaped specimens of Bio-C Sealer, Bio-C Sealer Ion+, and BioRoot RCS were prepared according to the manufacturers' instructions. Material extracts were obtained in culture medium and applied to iPDLCs. Mitochondrial metabolism was assessed by the MTT assay at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Gene expression of proliferation-associated markers (MAPK14, YAP1, and CREB1) and osteogenic markers (COL1A1, RUNX2, SP7, and ALPL) was evaluated by qRT-PCR at 3 and 10 days. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Bio-C Sealer Ion+ showed the lowest mitochondrial metabolism at 24 h, while BioRoot induced the highest values at 72 h (p < 0.05). Gene expression analysis revealed time-dependent increases in proliferation markers across all groups. At 10 days, Bio-C Sealer Ion+ exhibited the highest MAPK14, YAP1, and CREB1 expression (p < 0.05). For osteogenic markers, Bio-C Sealer Ion+ significantly increased COL1A1 and ALPL expression at both time points. RUNX2 and SP7 expression peaked in the Bio-C Sealer and Bio-C Sealer Ion+ groups at 10 days, while BioRoot showed moderate expression levels. CONCLUSIONS: All tested bioceramic sealers demonstrated adequate cytocompatibility and modulated transcriptional responses in iPDLCs. Bio-C Sealer Ion+ was associated with increased expression of proliferation-associated and osteogenic markers over time, suggesting a potential stimulatory effect on periodontal cell responses related to repair.