Modulation of Pulpal MMP-8 and VEGF-Alpha by Bioactive Calcium Silicate and Blood Cockle Shell Extract Combination in Rats

Authors

• Angelia Conny Nidiaty, Department of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow
• Noor Hikmah, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow
• Kezia Rachellea Mustakim, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow
• Wahyuni Suci Dwiandhany, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow
• Hafsah Katu, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow
• Juni Jekti Nugroho, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, IndonesiaFollow

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated MMP-8 and VEGF-Alpha expression in rat dental pulp inflammation after application of bioactive calcium silicate combined with blood cockle shell extract.

Methods: Forty mandibular incisors were randomly assigned to four groups: 100% bioactive calcium silicate (control) and three treatment groups containing 25%, 50%, or 75% shell extract with the remainder calcium silicate. Direct pulp capping was performed, and samples were collected on days 1, 3, 7, and 14.

Results: Immunohistochemistry and one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in MMP-8 expression on days 1 and 3, and VEGF-Alpha expression across all time points (p < 0.05). The 75% shell extract group showed the lowest MMP-8 and highest VEGF-Alpha expression.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that combining blood cockle shell extract with bioactive calcium silicate enhances regenerative potential in inflamed pulp compared to only calcium silicate.

Recommended Citation

Nidiaty, Angelia Conny; Hikmah, Noor; Mustakim, Kezia Rachellea; Dwiandhany, Wahyuni Suci; Katu, Hafsah; and Nugroho, Juni Jekti (2026) "Modulation of Pulpal MMP-8 and VEGF-Alpha by Bioactive Calcium Silicate and Blood Cockle Shell Extract Combination in Rats," International Arab Journal of Dentistry: Vol. 17: Iss. 2, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65314/2218-0885.1833
Available at: https://e-journals.usj.edu.lb/iajd/vol17/iss2/2