Dental Pulp Stem Cells Support Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases
ABSTRACT
The Importance of Stem Cells Isolated from Human Dental Pulp in Neurodegenerative Diseases.
Cells. 2023 Jul;12(13):1686. doi: 10.3390/cells12131686.
Candelise N, Pisano F, Bonomini A, Gelain F, Parati EA, Greco R.
Author information
Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Regenerative Medicine, affiliated research institutions in Italy.
Institute of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, affiliated academic institutions.
Department of Biomedical Sciences and Translational Medicine, affiliated academic institutions.
BACKGROUND: Neurodegenerative diseases are progressive disorders characterized by the loss of neurons and nervous system function. Current therapies are largely limited to symptom management and do not halt disease progression. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) have attracted attention because of their neural crest origin, regenerative capacity, and ability to differentiate into neural cell types.
METHODS: The authors reviewed advances in the use of DPSCs and SHEDs in preclinical models of neurodegenerative diseases. The review examined stem cell maintenance, neural differentiation, therapeutic mechanisms, and potential clinical applications.
RESULTS: Studies demonstrated that DPSCs and SHEDs can differentiate into neuron-like cells and secrete neurotrophic factors that support neuronal survival and repair. Preclinical research showed beneficial effects in models of neurodegenerative disorders, including improvements in neuroprotection, inflammation modulation, and tissue regeneration. The review also highlighted the similarities and differences between DPSCs and SHEDs regarding proliferation, differentiation potential, and therapeutic applications.
CONCLUSIONS: This review showed that stem cells isolated from human dental pulp possess significant potential for treating neurodegenerative diseases through regenerative and neuroprotective mechanisms. Continued research may help advance these promising findings toward future clinical applications.
PMID: 37443720
PMCID: PMC10380796
DOI: 10.3390/cells12131686