Physical properties and biological effects of mineral trioxide aggregate mixed with methylcellulose and calcium chloride

OBJECTIVES: Methylcellulose (MC) is a chemical compound derived from cellulose. MTA mixed with MC reduces setting time and increases plasticity. This study assessed the influence of MC as an anti-washout ingredient and CaCl(2) as a setting time accelerator on the physical and biological properties of MTA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Test materials were divided into 3 groups; Group 1(control): distilled water; Group 2: 1% MC/CaCl(2); Group 3: 2% MC/CaCl(2). Compressive strength, pH, flowability and cell viability were tested. The gene expression of bone sialoprotein (BSP) was detected by RT-PCR and real­ time PCR. The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and mineralization behavior were evaluated using an ALP staining and an alizarin red staining. RESULTS: Compressive strength, pH, and cell viability of MTA mixed with MC/CaCl(2) were not significantly different compared to the control group. The flowability of MTA with MC/CaCI(2) has decreased significantly when compared to the control (p<.05). The mRNA level of BSP has increased significantly in MTA with MC/CaCl(2) compared to the control (p<.05). This study revealed higher expression of ALP and mineralization in cells exposed to MTA mixed with water and MTA mixed with MC/CaCl(2) compared to the control (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: MC decreased the flowability of MTA and did not interrupt the physical and biological effect of MTA. It suggests that these cements may be useful as a root-end filling material.