Anti-Inflammatory and bone-protective effects of Pimpinella brachycarpa extract in a rat periodontitis model

Pimpinella brachycarpa has been used in food and traditional herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of P. brachycarpa extract (PBE) in a rat model of ligature-induced periodontitis and identified its active compounds, such as green tea catechin (GTC), chlorogenic acid (CGA), and their combination (MIX). Seven-week-old rats received PBE (150–300 mg/kg/day) for 14 days post-ligation to induce periodontitis. Outcomes were assessed using gross morphology, histology, TRAP staining, and immunohistochemistry. UPLC revealed CGA as a major constituent in PBE. PBE significantly reduced alveolar bone loss and inflammatory responses compared to the vehicle-treated ligature-induced periodontitis group (LIG), with effects comparable to or exceeding those of ISD (Zea mays L. extract and Magnolia cortex extract-containing herbal formulaas a reference drug), GTC, CGA, and MIX. TRAP and IHC analyses indicated suppression of osteoclast activity and decreased expression of CD45, IL-1β, and TNF-α. These findings suggest that PBE mitigates periodontitis via modulation of osteoclastogenesis and immune responses. Given its efficacy and bioactive profile, PBE may serve as a promising candidate for the development of natural therapeutics against periodontal disease.