Enhanced neurogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells via BDNF-loaded oxidized alginate hydrogel
Nica Jeorgia P Salazar1, Zar Chi Soe2, Daneeya Na Nan2
1Graduate Program in Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Objective:
To evaluate the neurogenic potential of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) delivered via oxidized alginate hydrogel (OAH) in dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs).
Methodology:
OAH was synthesized by partial oxidation of sodium alginate. DPSCs were pretreated with all-trans retinoic acid, followed by BDNF-OAH exposure (n = 3). Cell viability was assessed by MTT and Live/Dead assays. Neurogenic differentiation was analyzed using qPCR and immunofluorescence for Nestin, DCX, and TUBB3, with fluorescence quantified in ImageJ. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests (p < 0.05).
Results:
DPSCs remained viable across all treatment groups. After 8 days, qPCR showed increased DCX and Nestin mRNA expression in the BDNF group. TUBB3 was highest in the control. Nestin expression was low in both OAH and BDNF-OAH groups. Immunofluorescence revealed elevated DCX expression in the BDNF and BDNF-OAH groups, while βIII-tubulin expression was highest in the BDNF-OAH group.
Conclusion:
Neuronal regeneration plays a critical role in restoring dental pulp function, supporting neuro-reception, and maintaining vitality. BDNF-OAH enhanced neuronal protein expression beyond soluble BDNF, supporting its use as an independent neuro-supportive hydrogel for localized growth-factor delivery in regenerative endodontics.
Clinical Significance:
This study highlights the potential of BDNF-loaded oxidized alginate hydrogel as a neuro-supportive platform for dental pulp regeneration. By promoting early neuronal marker expression in DPSCs, BDNF-OAH may help restore pulp vitality and sensory function, addressing a critical yet underexplored aspect of true pulp tissue regeneration.
