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LepR+ skeletal stem/progenitor cells in craniofacial tissues
Satsuki Shidara1, Karishma Madhusudan Desai2, Toshihide Mizoguchi3
1Department of Orthodontics, Tokyo Dental College, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0061, Japan.
Journal of Oral Biosciences
|May 29, 2026
Summary
Leptin receptor (LepR)+ skeletal stem/progenitor cells (SSPCs) in the jawbone support bone health and repair. These cells also influence blood cell development, offering potential for new oral regenerative strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oral biology
- Stem cell research
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- Leptin receptor (LepR)+ stromal cells are identified as skeletal stem/progenitor cells (SSPCs) in bone marrow.
- These SSPCs generate osteolineage cells and maintain skeletal homeostasis.
- LepR+ SSPCs express niche factors crucial for the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niche.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on LepR+ SSPCs in periodontal tissues.
- To discuss their roles in skeletal maintenance, tissue repair, and hematopoietic regulation.
- To explore potential insights for oral health and regenerative strategies.
Main Methods:
- Genetic cell-labeling studies identified LepR+ SSPCs in craniofacial tissues.
- Analysis of LepR+ SSPCs in the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone marrow.
- Review of existing literature on LepR+ SSPC functions.
Main Results:
- LepR+ SSPCs differentiate into osteoblasts and cementoblasts in craniofacial tissues.
- Periodontal LepR+ cells contribute to orthodontic remodeling, periodontal repair, and extraction socket healing.
- These cells express HSC niche factors, suggesting immune and hematopoietic regulatory roles.
Conclusions:
- Periodontal LepR+ cells are key players in oral tissue homeostasis and repair.
- They may influence local immune and hematopoietic environments.
- Understanding their unique regulatory mechanisms can advance oral skeletal and hematopoietic biology and regenerative medicine.
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