The phthalocyanine derivative is less cytotoxic and does not impair in vitro wound healing compared to chlorhexidine

Objectives: To compare the cytotoxicity of different concentrations of a phthalocyanine (PHY) to chlorhexidine (CHX) and the influence of these compounds on fibroblast cell migration. Method: ology: Different concentrations of CHX and PHY (0.0075% to 0.12%) were evaluated using NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT and crystal violet (CV) assay; CHX and PHY (0.0075% and 0.12%) were also evaluated by in vitro wound healing assay. Results: : PHY was less cytotoxic compared to CHX, based on cell viability assays. PHY did not interfere with experimental healing, allowing cell migration similar to the positive control with both concentrations (PHY 0.0075% and 0.12%) and only 0.0075% CHX allowed cell migration. In a comparative analysis, PHY showed less cytotoxicity than CHX and PHY concentrations of 0.0075% and 0.015% was non-toxic even after 48 hours of contact with the cells. Conclusion: This in vitro evaluation demonstrated that PHY was less cytotoxic to NIH 3T3 fibroblasts compared to CHX. Furthermore, the different concentrations of PHY did not interfere negatively in the healing of experimental wounds. Clinical Relevance: Due to the observed clinical adverse effects and cytotoxicity, it becomes necessary to search for alternatives to CHX. Respecting the limitations of the current in vitro study, PHY showed satisfactory and promising results as a potential alternative to CHX.