Effects of high glucose on human fibroblasts from periodontal ligament potencial regulation by microRNAs 221 and 222.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of high glucose on human periodontal ligament cells, and to clarify the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in these effects. The cells were obtained from children / adolescents premolar teeth and divided into groups: control (5 mM glucose) and high glucose (30 mM glucose), maintained for 7 days. Glucose reduced cell adhesion, reduced spreading and inhibited cell migration, with reduced speed and directionality. Glucose did not alter cell proliferation, but increased death by apoptosis and caspase 3 expression. Expression of 29a and 29ax miRNAs was not modulated by glucose, whereas miRNAs 221 and 222 were reduced. Inhibition of miR-221 and miR-222 reduced migration and increased cell death, while overexpression of these two miRs increased cell migration and reduced death by apoptosis. In conclusion, cells of the human periodontal ligament are sensitive to high glucose concentration in functions such as migration and survival. (AU)