Dental Pulp Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles for Dentin-Pulp Complex Regeneration: A Systematic Review and...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• Dental pulp stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (DPSC-EVs) are investigated for their regenerative potential.
• Extracellular vesicles mediate cell-to-cell communication and contain bioactive molecules.
• Understanding DPSC-EVs' role in dentin-pulp complex regeneration is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize preclinical data on DPSC-EVs for dentin-pulp complex regeneration.
• To quantitatively assess the impact of DPSC-EVs on key regenerative outcomes.
• To identify factors influencing DPSC-EV efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• Inclusion of preclinical in-vitro and in-vivo studies.
• PRISMA guidelines followed for study selection and data extraction.

Main Results:

• DPSC-EVs significantly upregulated odontogenic markers (BMP2, DSPP, OCN, DMP1, RUNX2, ALP) in vitro.
• EV treatment enhanced angiogenesis (VEGF) and endothelial junction development.
• In vivo studies confirmed DPSC-EVs promote odontogenic regeneration, angiogenesis, ECM formation, and neurovascularization.
• Engineered EVs demonstrated superior regenerative capacity.

Conclusions:

• Preclinical evidence strongly supports DPSC-EVs' capacity for dentin-pulp complex regeneration.
• Significant heterogeneity in methodology and lack of clinical data necessitate further research.
• Standardization of EV production, characterization, and dosing is essential for clinical translation.