To observe the effects of arecoline on the related protein expressions in the apoptosis of cultured human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLFs), such as p-JNK, p-p53, and Bcl-2.

hPDLFs were isolated from human periodontal ligament tissues and expanded in vitro. hPDLFs were treated with different concentrations of arecoline (0, 20, 40 and 80 μg/m L) for 12 h. The proliferative activities were evaluated by MTT. The expressions of p-JNK, p-p53, and Bcl-2 were determined by Western blot.

Arecoline inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis protein. The protein level of Bcl-2 was decreased, while p-JNK and p-p53 were increased (P < 0.05). The protein expressions were in a concentration - dependent manner with arecoline.

It demonstrates arecoline might contribute to the apoptosis of hPDLFs, and could destroy periodontal tissues.