Anti-Osteoclastogenesis Effect of Gambir Extract Gel in Periodontitis

Objective: RANK-RANKL-OPG signaling is being considered as the pathway periodontitis induces osteoclastogenesis. Alveolar bone resorption and increased osteoclast activity are both triggered by a greater RANKL/OPG ratio in periodontitis. Gambir contains catechins and quercetin, which have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to analyze the anti-osteoclastogenesis effect of gambir extract gel through RANKL and OPG serum levels, the number of osteoblasts, and osteoclasts in alveolar bone tissue of Wistar rats. Material and Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four equal groups, each receiving a different treatment: Group I received a placebo gel, Group II received Tetracycline gel, Group III received 8% gambir extract gel, and Group IV received 10% gambir extract gel. After 21 days, the serum levels of RANKL and OPG were assessed using ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin staining of the bone tissue preparation was followed by microscopic counting of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Results: Significant differences in RANKL serum levels were seen in Group I (0.70 + 0.020) with Group III (0.031 + 0.014) (p=0.018) and Group I with Group IV (0.038 + 0.012) (p=0.041). Serum levels of OPG differed significantly between Groups I (0.165+0,125) and IV (0.536+0.182) p=(0.015). The number of Osteoblast in Group I (1.16+ 0.40) and IV (1.33+1.03) were significantly different (p=0.023). The number of Osteoclast in Group I (4.33+1.50) and IV (1.5+0.83) were significantly different (p=0.008). Conclusion: Gambir Extract Gel 10% inhibits osteoclastogenesis by increasing osteoblast and decreasing osteoclast numbers by more than 8%, decreasing RANKL, and elevating OPG serum levels. Keywords: Gambir Extract Gel, Osteoclastogenesis, Periodontitis