The Impact of Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) Exposure in Buccal Epithelial Cell Viability and Morphology

Authors

  • Naila M. Giomna South East Asian Institute of Technology Inc. Author
  • Naila M. Giomna South East Asian Institute of Technology Inc. Author
  • Regine V. Cortez South East Asian Institute of Technology Inc. Author
  • Darlene Faith P. Gella South East Asian Institute of Technology Inc. Author
  • Jason E. Suquib South East Asian Institute of Technology Inc. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21457776

Keywords:

Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC), cell viability, cell morphology, buccal epithelial cells, cytotoxicity, mouthwash.

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC), a commonly used antimicrobial agent in mouthwash formulations, on the viability and morphology of human cheek epithelial cells. The research aimed to determine how different frequencies of CPC exposure influence cellular viability and structural integrity over a seven-day period. An experimental research design was employed involving forty participants aged 19–25 years. Participants were divided into groups exposed to CPC-containing mouthwash either once daily or twice daily. Cell samples were collected and analyzed using Methylene Blue staining, hemocytometer counting, and microscopic examination. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze the data. Results revealed that CPC exposure affected both cell viability and morphology. Mean viability values were 44.73% for the once-daily exposure group and 47.48% for the twice-daily exposure group. Microscopic observations showed structural abnormalities, including membrane disruption, irregular cell shape, cell shrinkage, and cellular fragmentation. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong negative relationship between cell viability and morphological damage, with correlation coefficients of r = −0.794 for once-daily exposure and r = −0.873 for twice-daily exposure. ANOVA results indicated significant effects of exposure duration on cellular responses (p < 0.001). The findings suggest that repeated and prolonged exposure to CPC may contribute to progressive cytotoxic effects, reducing cell viability and compromising cellular structure. The study provides valuable insights into the biological effects of CPC and highlights the importance of proper usage frequency of CPC-containing oral hygiene products.

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Published

2026-07-20

How to Cite

Giomna , N., Giomna , N., Cortez , R., Gella , D. F., & Suquib , J. (2026). The Impact of Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) Exposure in Buccal Epithelial Cell Viability and Morphology. International Journal of Education, Research, and Innovation Perspectives, 2(7), 1323-1341. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21457776

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