Resveratrol rescues TNF-α-induced inhibition of osteogenesis in human periodontal ligament stem cells via the ERK1/2 pathway

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disorder affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth, which can lead to the destruction of periodontal tissue and tooth loss. Resveratrol, a natural phytoalexin, exerts multiple biological effects. For example, its anti-inflammatory activity has been widely studied for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease for a number of years. However, its effect on bone repair and new bone formation in an inflammatory microenvironment is not well understood. Accordingly, the effect of resveratrol on inflammation-affected human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) requires further investigation. In the present study, the effect of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), resveratrol, or the combination of both on the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs, as well as the underlying mechanisms involved, were investigated. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin red staining, Oil Red O staining, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting were used in the present study. It was demonstrated that resveratrol enhanced hPDLSC osteogenesis and reversed the inhibitory effects of TNF-α on this process. Further mechanistic studies indicated that resveratrol exerted anti-inflammatory activity by activating the ERK1/2 pathway, decreasing the secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 induced by TNF-α, and enhancing hPDLSCs osteogenesis. The present study suggested that resveratrol may be a novel and promising therapeutic choice for periodontitis.