Regeneration of dentin‑pulp complex by using dental pulp stem cells in dog

Abstract

Introduction: Although missing tooth is not life‑threatening, it affects the quality of daily life. Stem
cells have emerged as an important player in the generation and maintenance of many tissues. The
role of scaffolds has changed from a passive carrier to a bioactive matrix, which can be used to
induce cellular behavior. The aim of this study was to determine the possibility of regeneration of
dentin‑pulp complex with dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in an animal model.
Materials and Methods:In this animal study after extraction of DPSCs and cultivation, 10 types of scaffolds were
made by using platelet‑rich plasma (PRP), cancellous bone, and collagen pad. They were inserted
in different parts of the dog’s mouth. After the 4th month, the area was operated, and the scaffolds
were removed.
Results: Microscopic examination revealed no sign of cell differentiation and formation of new
structures in those models which used collagen scaffolds. However, the dentin‑pulp complex emerged
in models that the combination of bone scaffolds and PRP or stem cells was used.
Conclusion: Using bone scaffolds in combination with PRP or DPSCs to regenerate dentin‑pulp
complex in dog helped odontoblastic and pulpal differentiation as well as the formation of predentin
and tubular dentin.
Key Words: Complex, dental pulp stem cell, dentin, differentiation, platelet‑rich plasma, pulp