Epigenetic regulation of dental-derived stem cells and their application in pulp and periodontal regeneration

PeerJ. 2023 Jan 3:11:e14550. doi: 10.7717/peerj.14550. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

Dental-derived stem cells have excellent proliferation ability and multi-directional differentiation potential, making them an important research target in tissue engineering. An increasing number of dental-derived stem cells have been discovered recently, including dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), stem cells from exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs), stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs), dental follicle precursor cells (DFPCs), and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). These stem cells have significant application prospects in tissue regeneration because they are found in an abundance of sources, and they have good biocompatibility and are highly effective. The biological functions of dental-derived stem cells are regulated in many ways. Epigenetic regulation means changing the expression level and function of a gene without changing its sequence. Epigenetic regulation is involved in many biological processes, such as embryonic development, bone homeostasis, and the fate of stem cells. Existing studies have shown that dental-derived stem cells are also regulated by epigenetic modifications. Pulp and periodontal regeneration refers to the practice of replacing damaged pulp and periodontal tissue and restoring the tissue structure and function under normal physiological conditions. This treatment has better therapeutic effects than traditional treatments. This article reviews the recent research on the mechanism of epigenetic regulation of dental-derived stem cells, and the core issues surrounding the practical application and future use of pulp and periodontal regeneration.

Keywords: Dental pulp regeneration; Dental-derived stem cells; Epigenetic regulation; Periodontal regeneration.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Humans
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells*
  • Periodontal Ligament
  • Periodontium / physiology
  • Stem Cells / physiology

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81800929 and No. 82170921), the Chengdu Science and Technology Program (No.2019-YF05-00441-SN) and the Research and Develop Program, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University (No. LCYJ2019-24). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.