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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

09:37
Cellular Encapsulation in 3D Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering
Published on: October 26, 2009
Cell homing within endodontic hydrogels: A scoping review.
Lisa Reiniche1, Gaspare Degano1,2, Marianne Leveque1
1Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie thérapeutique, UMR 5305 CNRS/Université, France.
The Japanese Dental Science Review
|June 12, 2026
Summary
Standardized methods are crucial for cell homing in dental pulp regeneration using hydrogels. This review highlights inconsistencies in current research, emphasizing the need for clearer experimental approaches for better clinical translation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Endodontics
Background:
- Cell homing using hydrogels offers a minimally invasive, cell-free approach for dental pulp regeneration.
- Current research lacks standardized models, hindering comparability and clinical translation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and classify experimental strategies for studying cell homing with hydrogels in endodontics.
- To provide recommendations for enhancing the physiological relevance and methodological clarity of future research.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of studies published in the past decade was conducted.
- Searches were performed in PubMed and ScienceDirect databases.
- Key variables included modulated parameters, hydrogel type, targeted tissue, and cell homing assessment.
Main Results:
- Out of 32 included articles, 72% used 3D migration or acellular in vivo models to evaluate cell homing.
- A significant discrepancy exists between declared intentions and actual experimental practices regarding cell homing assessment (19% explicit vs. 53% implicit).
Conclusions:
- Standardized methodologies are essential for accurately defining and assessing cell homing in dental pulp regeneration.
- Improved standardization will facilitate more reliable biological interpretation and clinical translation of findings.
