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Zinc bioglasses regulate mineralization in human dental pulp stem cells
Mei Huang1, Robert G Hill2, Simon C F Rawlinson3
1Institute of Dentistry, Barts & The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK; Institute of Dentistry, Dental Physical Sciences Unit, Barts & The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK.
Summary
Zinc-containing bioactive glasses (ZnBGs) promote human dental pulp stem cell growth and differentiation. These findings suggest ZnBGs are beneficial for regenerative endodontics, potentially improving current zinc-based clinical products.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Stem Cell Biology
- Regenerative Endodontics
Background:
- Regenerative endodontics aims to restore dental pulp vitality using stem cells and biomaterials.
- Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are a key component in these regenerative strategies.
- The role of zinc and zinc-containing bioactive glasses (ZnBGs) in hDPSCs function requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of zinc and ZnBGs on the proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization of hDPSCs.
- To assess the potential of ZnBGs as a biomaterial substrate for regenerative endodontics.
Main Methods:
- Design and production of ZnBGs.
- Treatment of hDPSCs with varying concentrations of free zinc ions and ZnBG-conditioned medium (ZnBG-CM).
- Assessment of hDPSCs proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, odontogenic and osteogenic marker expression (DSPP, DMP-1, RUNX2, OCN, BSP, BMP-2, MEPE, ON), mineralized nodule formation (SEM-EDX), and VEGF expression.
Main Results:
- Free zinc ions (0-5ppm) enhanced hDPSCs proliferation and ALP activity.
- ZnBG-CM significantly increased the production and secretion of odontogenic markers (DSPP, DMP-1).
- Treatment with ZnBG-CM upregulated mRNA expression of key osteogenic markers and promoted the formation of mineralized nodules resembling hydroxyapatite, alongside inducing VEGF expression.
Conclusions:
- ZnBGs exhibit a positive impact on hDPSCs, enhancing their proliferative and differentiation capabilities.
- The findings support the use of ZnBGs in regenerative endodontics.
- ZnBGs may offer a novel approach to utilizing zinc in clinical endodontic applications.