Evaluating the effect of Tualang honey on the viability and migration of human gingival fibroblasts

Tualang honey, produced by the wild bee species Apis dorsata, is predominantly found in the South Asian region, particularly in Malaysia. Tualang honey has attracted scientific interest for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, highlighting its potential for therapeutic use. The study aimed to assess the effects of Tualang honey on the viability and migration of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) using MTT and scratch assays. HGFs were cultured in standard fibroblast medium at 37°C in a 5% CO2 humidified incubator. Cells were seeded at 5×10³ cells/well in a 96-well plate and incubated for 24 hours before being treated with varying concentrations of Tualang honey, with the negative control receiving only growth medium. After 24 hours, cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay and absorbance was measured at 570 nm. For the scratch migration assay, cells were seeded at 10×10³ cells/well in a 24-well plate and incubated for 24 hours. A scratch was made on the cell layer, followed by treatment with Tualang honey at various concentrations, a negative control (untreated cells), and a positive control (0.1% Gengigel mouthwash). Images were captured at 0-, 24-, and 48-hours using Image-Pro Express software. This study demonstrated that Tualang honey at concentrations of 2.5% and below promoted high cell viability (above 88%), while concentrations ?0.3% significantly enhanced cell migration. These findings indicate that Tualang honey, when applied at appropriate concentrations, is non-cytotoxic and promotes cell proliferation and possesses strong potential for periodontal tissue healing applications. Therefore, it shows potential as a natural agent for enhancing periodontal wound healing.