Effects of Lectin (ScLL) on osteoclast-like multinucleated giant cells maturation - A preliminary in vitro study.

Background/Aim: Lectin (ScLL) has been recently evaluated in the oral cavity due to its anti-inflammatory activities. ScLL could be a promising agent for blocking osteoclast activity and preventing root resorption. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ScLL on the viability of the RAW 264.7 macrophage lineage, osteoclast-like maturation and the release of TNF-alpha and nitric oxide (NO). Materials and Methods: The viability of RAW 264.7 cells was determined by MTT and Alamar Blue assays after ScLL treatment for 24 hours. ScLL effects on RANKL-induced osteoclast-like maturation were assessed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and F-actin ring formation. The supernatant was collected to detect the release of TNF-alpha using ELISA and NO using a nitrite assay. Results: ScLL suppressed osteoclast-like maturation by decreasing TRAP activity as well as F-actin ring formation. ScLL at 10 mu g/mL showed the highest values of NO release compared with all other groups (P < .05). Lower levels of TNF-alpha were found for the negative control. Conclusions: ScLL at 5 mu g/mL suppressed osteoclast-like maturation in vitro and had no cytotoxic effect on RAW cell cultures.