A Study on Stimulating Effects of Potentized Sulphur on Neutrophil Granulocytes from Patients with Periodontal Inflammation and a Healthy Control Group

Background: Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the gingiva and periodontium. It can affect the general state of health, increase the predisposition to certain systemic diseases and have an unfavorable effect on their course. From an immunological point of view, certain leukocyte sub-populations are located at the site of the inflammatory response. Neutrophil granulocytes are among the inflammatory cells involved in the processes of the “first line of defense” of the immune system. In previous basic studies with potentized substances, an in vitro method using a three-dimensional migration assay was validated. By tracking the cell movement, it was possible to make statements about their migration and activation. In particular, an immunomodulatory effect of potentized Sulphur with human T-lymphocytes was demonstrated.

Aim: Since conclusions were limited due to the small sample size in the pilot study, we conducted a replication study with a larger number of patients.

Methods: From eight healthy and eight volunteers with periodontitis, whole blood was collected and neutrophil granulocytes were isolated. Using the 3-dimensional collagen matrix migration assay with subsequent cell tracking in time-lapse, the migratory properties of the granulocytes were investigated. The collagen connective tissue matrix used in this process closely resembles a physiological in vivo situation. By adding factors/inhibitors, their influence on cell migration and activity was investigated on granulocytes exposed with watery solution of Sulphur 8x, 12x, and 24x potencies and placebo.

Results: The experiments were completed and statistical results are expected in January 2023. Detailed results of the experiments will be presented.

Discussion: Basic research with potentized substances has a long tradition but, in the past, has mainly focused on plant- or animal- based laboratory assays using duckweed or amphibian models. The approach presented here concentrates on human cells ex vivo and thus complements the results of previous basic research.

Keywords: Basic research, Sulphur, granulocytes, periodontitis, migration assay

Publication History

Article published online:
30 January 2024