Microtubules and vimentin associated filaments (VIFs) in cultured human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) after exposure to acrolein and acetaldehyde

Tobacco smoke, particularly its non-volatile fraction e. g. nicotine, is co nsidered to be a major risk factor for the development and progression of p eriodontal disease. The purpose of this study has been to determine the eff ects of acrolein and acetaldehyde of the volatile fraction of tobacco smoki ng, on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) cultured in vitro with particular attention to cytoskeletal structures. A human gingival fibroblast strain de rived from healthy gingiva was utilized in this study. The cells were expos ed to acrolein and acetaldehyde at various concentrations. Control and trea ted cells were compared as regards their adhesion on cell culture dishes. T heir cytoskeletal structures [tubulin and vimentin intermediate filaments ( VIFs)] were examined by fluorescence microscopy. The results revealed that both substances produced similar effects resulting in a dose dependent decr ease in cell adhesion and alterations of HGF cytoskeleton consisting of rea rrangement and/or disruption of microtubules and vimentin associated filame nts. Changes in cell shape and decrease in cell size were also seen. On the basis of this in vitro study, it appears that tobacco, through its volatil e components, may directly affect the main functions of HGFs.