Stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) are used to regulate the microenvironment of nerve defects. KDM6B, which functions as an H3K27me3 demethylase, is known to play a crucial role in neurogenesis. However, the mechanism by which KDM6B influences the neurogenesis potential of SCAPs remains unclear. We evaluated the expression of neural markers in SCAPs by using real-time RT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining. To assess the effectiveness of SCAP transplantation in the SCI model, we used the BBB scale to evaluate motor function. Additionally, toluidine blue staining and Immunofluorescence staining of NCAM, NEFM, β-III-tubulin, and Nestin were used to assess nerve tissue remodeling. Further analysis was conducted through Microarray analysis and ChIP assay to study the molecular mechanisms. Our results show that KDM6B inhibits the expression of NeuroD, TH, β-III tubulin, and Nestin. In vivo studies indicate that the SCAP-KDM6Bsh group is highly effective in restoring spinal cord structure and motor function in rats suffering from SCI. Our findings suggest that KDM6B directly binds to the HES1 promoter via regulating H3K27me3 and HES1 expression. In conclusion, our study can help understand the regulatory role of KDM6B in neurogenesis and provide more effective treatments for nerve injury.
Keywords: hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1); lysine (K)-specific demethylase 6B (KDM6B); neurogenesis potential; stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs).