Aim: In this study, we aimed to establish the differentiation protocol of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) into pancreatic islets using a 3D structure.
Materials & methods: DPSCs were differentiated in a 3D culture system using a stepwise protocol. Expression of β-cell markers, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and PI3K/AKT and WNT pathways were compared between monolayer-cultured pancreatic cells and islets.
Results: Islet formation increased insulin and C-peptide production, and enhanced the expression of pancreatic markers. Glucose-dependent secretion of insulin was increased by islets. Pancreatic endocrine markers, transcriptional factors, and the PI3K/AKT and WNT pathways were also upregulated.
Conclusion: Pancreatic islets were generated from DPSCs in a 3D culture system. This system could provide novel strategies for controlling diabetes through regenerative medicine.
Keywords: cell differentiation; cell therapy; dental pulp; diabetes mellitus; endoderm; insulin-secreting cells; pancreas development; pancreatic islets; regenerative medicine; stem cells.