In vitro testing the potential of a novel chimeric IgG variant for inhibiting collagen fibrils formation in recurrent hereditary gingival fibromatosis: chimeric antibody in a gingival model.

Gingival fibromatosis is a progressive enlargement of the gingiva. It may hinder oral cavity hygiene and result in underlying bone loss. The long-term benefits of surgery cannot be predicted. On the other hand, alternative, efficient and non-invasive methods are not available at present. The aim of this study was to test the inhibitory effects of a chimeric IgG variant on collagen fibril formation in the cell culture of gingival fibroblasts taken from a patient with hereditary gingival fibromatosis with a high propensity for recurrence. Gingival biopsies were collected from the mandibular gingiva and used for histological evaluation as well as to establish a fibroblast culture. A histological evaluation was made in haematoxylin-eosin and Heidenhain's trichrome stained tissue sections. The inhibitory effect of a chimeric antibody on collagen fibril formation was determined in fibroblast cultures by using a collagen-specific Western blot and immunofluorescent staining. A histological evaluation revealed epithelial acanthosis with singular elongated rete pegs extending into the underlying connective tissue stroma that consisted of locally abundant, irregular collagen bundles. Based on observations with an in vitro model we conclude that a chimeric anti-collagen antibody efficiently inhibits collagen fibril accumulation in cell culture derived from diffuse, hereditary gingival fibromatosis that is characterized by a high propensity for recurrence (high proliferation index). Employing cell cultures from standardized group of patients with recurrent hereditary gingival fibromatosis as well as standarizing relevant 3D (tissue-like) models will be crucial for further tests of the antibody.