Evidence based Osteogenic, anti adipogenic and anti- senescence action of Centella asiatica extract on Dental pulp stem cells

Aim: Centella asiatica linn family of Apiaceae has been used as a traditional medicine as anti-aging remedy to minimize the severity of aging problems. However the effects of Centella asiatica on stem cell differentiation and anti-aging activity are not fully understood. In this investigation we tested the effect of an aqueous extract of Centella asiatica on senescence and osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells ( hDPSCs). Methods: DPSC (n = 10) from the human pulp was treated with various concentrations of Centella asiatica(CA). The cytotoxicity of CA assessed using the MTT. The hDPSCs were then induced to osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic differentiation for 6 and 21 days using either CA alone or a combination of Centella asiatica with an appropriate induction media. We also evaluated the early and late passage senescence activity of DPSC. Key finding: Our data demonstrate effect of CA extract on adipogenesis, chondrogenesis and osteogenesis, and anti-aging activity. We found that there was initial increase in adipogenesis which was diminished in long-term culture. Similarly, the extract was found to enhance chondrogenesis and osteogenesis and reduced senescence as revealed by β-galactosidase staining. Significance: The present study demonstrated for the first time that the CA extract was able to inhibit adipogenesis, senescence, and accelerated osteogenesis in DPSCs. Overall results show that CA (Mandukaparni) extract can be used to treat osteoporosis, delay aging and reduce obesity.