Leptin promotes dentin sialophosphoprotein expression in human dental pulp
Jénifer Martín-González1, Antonio Pérez-Pérez2, Flora Sánchez-Jiménez2
1Department of Stomatology (Endodontics Section), University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain.
Journal of Endodontics
|January 14, 2015
Summary
Leptin receptor (LEPR) is found in human odontoblasts, and leptin stimulates dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) expression. This suggests leptin plays a role in dentin formation and pulp repair.
Area of Science:
- Oral Biology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Leptin and its receptor (LEPR) are present in human dental pulp.
- Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is crucial for dentinogenesis and pulp repair.
- The specific cells expressing LEPR and leptin's effects on DSPP were previously unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization of LEPR in human dental pulp.
- To determine the effect of leptin on DSPP expression in human dental pulp.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was used to identify LEPR localization in 25 human third molar pulp specimens.
- Immunoblot analysis and quantitative real-time PCR assessed DSPP expression after leptin treatment.
Main Results:
- LEPR immunoreactivity was concentrated in the odontoblast layer of the dental pulp.
- Leptin dose-dependently increased DSPP protein and mRNA expression.
- DSPP protein (∼100 kDa) and mRNA (298 bp fragment) were confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Human dental pulp odontoblasts express LEPR.
- Leptin stimulates DSPP expression, indicating a role in dentin mineralization and pulp repair.
- These findings highlight leptin's functional significance in dental pulp homeostasis.
