In Vitro Assessment of Morphology, Proliferation, Apoptosis and Differential Potential of Dental Pulp Stem Cells, When Marijuana Is Added to Nutrients of Cell Culture Medium

Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is widely used for recreational purposes. It has stimulatory effect on appetite, so cannabinoid receptor antagonists have been used to decrease food intake and to act peripherally by rising thermogenesis and energy expenditure to control obesity. This in vitro study determined morphological, growth, apoptosis and differential potential of changes in dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) when marijuana wasadded to nutrients of cell culture medium. Wisdom teeth extracted were used to obtain DPSCs, while characterized morphologically, by osteo- and adipo-inductions and flowcytometry for mesenchymal properties. MTT assay identified optimal concentration of cannabis extract. Cells were treated with 120 and 1000 ng/mL of cannabis during seven days period, while proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation of DPSCs were assessed. DPSCs were spindle shape and showed mesenchymal characteristics. MTT assay illustrated an increase in cell number until day 5th when DPSCs were treated with 120 and 1000 ng/mL of cannabis, while there was a decreasing trend on day 6th. There was an upregulation of the expression of Bax and COL1A1genes on day 6th when 120 and 1000 ng/mL of cannabis were added to the media in comparison to the control group. The increase in DPSC proliferation and viability when treated with cannabis denotes to its positive impact on cell proliferation during short term period, while a long term exposure to cannabis resulted in apoptosis and a decrease in cell proliferation. These findings reveal an issue of public health concern and alarm for health authorities.