Peptidergic nerves in human dental pulp. An immunocytochemical study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Dental Research
• Immunohistochemistry

Background:

• The peptidergic innervation of human dental pulp plays a crucial role in sensory perception and physiological regulation.
• Understanding the specific neuropeptides present is essential for elucidating their functions in dental tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distribution and types of peptidergic nerve fibers within the human dental pulp.
• To provide a morphological basis for understanding the roles of neuropeptides in dental nociception, vascular control, and inflammation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized indirect immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase techniques for detailed visualization.
• Examined pulpal nerve fibers, including those in radicular and coronal trunks and Raschkow's plexus.
• Focused on immunoreactivity for a wide range of neuropeptides.

Main Results:

• Identified numerous peptidergic nerve fibers expressing cholecystokinin, calcitonin gene-related peptide, various enkephalins, neuropeptide Y, substance P, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, and others.
• Observed immunoreactive axon varicosities in nerve trunks and Raschkow's plexus.
• Found peptidergic fibers associated with blood vessels and extending into the odontoblastic layer.
• Detected vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and peptide with N-terminal histidine and C-terminal isoleucine (PHI)-immunoreactive fibers, suggesting parasympathetic innervation.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals a rich peptidergic innervation of human dental pulp with diverse neuropeptide expression.
• Findings support the involvement of neuropeptides in dental pain mechanisms, vascular regulation, and inflammatory responses.
• Evidence suggests potential parasympathetic nerve supply to the human tooth via VIP and PHI fibers.