Oral epithelial cells constitute the first line of defence against various biological, chemical, and physical threats within the oral cavity. Beyond serving as a mechanical barrier, this epithelial layer actively participates in immune responses, tissue regeneration, and detoxification of harmful substances. Through coordinated structural and functional mechanisms, oral epithelial cells maintain tissue integrity and microbial homeostasis.
A study entitled “Analisis Sitogenetik Sel Epitel Mukosa Bukal Pekerja Stasiun Pengisi Bahan Bakar Umum di Kota Yogyakarta” demonstrated that buccal mucosal epithelial cells may undergo genetic alterations following exposure to chemical substances and environmental pollutants. This study highlights the protective and regenerative roles of epithelial cells in response to oxidative stress and toxic agents entering the oral cavity, as well as their potential use as early indicators of oral tissue health disturbances.
Basic Structure and Function of Oral Epithelial Cells
The oral epithelium consists of multiple layers with varying degrees of differentiation:
- Stratum basale (basal layer) — composed of progenitor cells that actively proliferate to replace damaged or exfoliated surface cells.
- Stratum spinosum and granulosum — contribute to tissue reinforcement through keratin formation and desmosomal connections.
- Stratum corneum (in keratinised areas) — forms a protective layer resistant to mechanical stress and microbial invasion.
Additionally, tight junctions, desmosomes, and hemidesmosomes play critical roles in maintaining intercellular cohesion and adhesion to the underlying lamina basalis, preventing the penetration of pathogens and toxic substances.
Defence Mechanisms of Oral Epithelial Cells
Oral epithelial cells employ multiple interconnected defence mechanisms:
- Physical and Chemical Defence Keratinised epithelial layers resist microbial invasion. Epithelial cells also produce antimicrobial peptides, such as defensins and cathelicidins, which inhibit pathogenic bacterial growth.
- Innate Immune Response Epithelial cells recognise microorganisms through receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), activating NF-κB signalling pathways and stimulating the production of cytokines (e.g., IL-6 and IL-8) to recruit immune cells such as neutrophils and macrophages.
- Detoxification and Response to Pollutants Exposure to chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals can induce DNA damage and genetic mutations. However, epithelial cells express detoxifying enzymes, including glutathione S-transferase (GST) and cytochrome P450, which neutralise toxic compounds and maintain cellular homeostasis.
- Regeneration and Differentiation: Damage to basal cells triggers epithelial stem cell proliferation via signalling pathways such as EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) and Wnt/β-catenin, facilitating tissue repair and restoration of epithelial integrity.
Clinical and Environmental Implications
Findings from the UGM study indicate that buccal mucosal epithelial cells are sensitive to environmental changes and may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for detecting genotoxic effects.
This has significant implications for preventive dentistry and public health, as exposure to vehicle emissions, industrial chemicals, and tobacco products can induce cytogenetic alterations associated with oral mucosal disease and oral cancer.
Therefore, maintaining the biological integrity of oral epithelial cells through environmental control, adequate nutrition, and proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing tissue damage and preserving physiological function.
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Oral epithelial cells play a vital biological role in protecting oral tissues from physical, chemical, and biological challenges. Their regenerative capacity and molecular defence mechanisms make them key components of the mucosal immune system. Cytogenetic studies of buccal mucosal epithelial cells underscore the importance of monitoring environmental impacts on oral health and developing cell biology–based preventive strategies to maintain both oral and systemic health.
References
Jurnal Teknosains Sekolah Pascasarjana UGM, Prof. Dr. drg. Regina Titi Christinawati Tandelilin, M.Sc., drg. Elastria Widita, M.Sc., Ph.D., dr. Rini Maya Puspita, M.Sc., “Analisis Sitogenetik Sel Epitel Mukosa Bukal Pekerja Stasiun Pengisi Bahan Bakar Umum di Kota Yogyakarta”,
https://jurnal.ugm.ac.id/teknosains/article/download/43852/31879
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
