To investigate the in-vitro effect of areca nut aqueous extract on reconstituted human epithelium model

Objective: To investigate the in vitro effect of areca nut aqueous extract on reconstituted human epithelium model by assessing the morphology of the tissue on formalin fixed paraffin embedded section. Methodology: Aqueous extract of areca nut, and Phosphate Buffered Saline (as control) was applied to the surface of the buccal epithelium and gingival epithelium. The morphology of the stratified oral epithelial model was examined at 24 and 48 hours by using formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue. Results: It was found that after 24 hours areca affected the morphology of the tissue by causing intercellular spacing and vacuolation. After 48 hours these changes were more marked and there was disorganization of prickle cell layer. Conclusion: This study has confirmed that aqueous extract of areca nut caused significant histological changes in the tissue examined.