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Invasion of vascular cells in vitro by Porphyromonas endodontalis
Author(s) -
Dorn B. R.,
Harris L. J.,
Wujick C. T.,
Vertucci F. J.,
ProgulskeFox A.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
international endodontic journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.988
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1365-2591
pISSN - 0143-2885
DOI - 10.1046/j.0143-2885.2001.00489.x
Subject(s) - microbiology and biotechnology , microorganism , biology , in vitro , pathogenesis , gentamicin protection assay , internalization , bacteria , immunology , cell , biochemistry , genetics , western blot , gene
Aim The objective of this study was to determine whether laboratory strains and clinical isolates of microorganisms associated with root canal infections can invade primary cultures of cardiovascular cells. Methodology Quantitative levels of bacterial invasion of human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC) and coronary artery smooth muscle cells (CASMC) were measured using a standard antibiotic protection assay. Transmission electron microscopy was used to confirm and visualize internalization within the vascular cells. Results Of the laboratory and clinical strains tested, only P. endodontalis ATCC 35406 was invasive in an antibiotic protection assay using HCAEC and CASMC. Invasion of P. endodontalis ATCC 35406 was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Discussion Certain microorganisms associated with endodontic infections are invasive. If bacterial invasion of the vasculature contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, then microorganisms in the pulp chamber represent potential pathogens.