Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences

A special issue of Dentistry Journal (ISSN 2304-6767).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 January 2025 | Viewed by 14974

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
Interests: tissue regeneration; bone tissue engineering; oral biology; evidence based dentistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
Interests: immunomodulatory regulation of stem-cell based pulpal repair; clinical efficacy of endodontic instruments; design and functional evaluation of endodontic instruments

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Regenerative dentistry is a branch of regenerative medicine that aims to regenerate oral and dental tissues. Loss of dental tissues and structure due to dental caries, periodontal diseases, bone resorption, tooth loss, and oral lesions impacts oral function as well as systemic health. Regenerative approaches in dental sciences are interdisciplinary modalities that encompass a board aspects of tissue engineering, developmental biology, and clinical practice. These approaches apply principles of biology and engineering to the challenges of restoring, maintaining, and improving the function of the oral and dental tissues.

This Special Issue aims to highlight the current applications and future potential uses of regenerative strategies in various dental treatments. We invite authors to contribute original research or comprehensive review articles highlighting novel regenerative approaches in dental sciences.

This Special Issue will cover a wide range of topics: various regenerative approaches including biomimetic materials, bioactive molecules, and stem cell-based therapy that have been explored, as well as the aspects that have now been deployed in routine clinical practice, including guided tissue regeneration and bone augmentation in periodontal surgery and implantology, and regenerative endodontics for pulpal revascularization. This Special Issue invites full papers, communications, and reviews.

Dr. Sepanta Hosseinpour
Prof. Dr. Ove Andreas Peters
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • regenerative dentistry
  • pulp biology
  • tissue regeneration
  • dental stem cells
  • tissue engineering

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 5660 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Volume of the Head of the Mandibular Condyle Using 3T-MRI—A Preliminary Trial
by Alessandro Mosca Balma, Davide Cavagnetto, Lorenzo Pavone and Federico Mussano
Dent. J. 2024, 12(7), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12070220 - 16 Jul 2024
Viewed by 760
Abstract
Due to potentially harmful exposure to X-rays, condylar growth in response to orthodontic treatment is poorly studied. To overcome this limitation, here, the authors have proposed high-resolution MRI as a viable alternative to CBCT for clinical 3D assessment of TMJ. A male subject [...] Read more.
Due to potentially harmful exposure to X-rays, condylar growth in response to orthodontic treatment is poorly studied. To overcome this limitation, here, the authors have proposed high-resolution MRI as a viable alternative to CBCT for clinical 3D assessment of TMJ. A male subject underwent both MRI and CBCT scans. The obtained three-dimensional reconstructions of the TMJ were segmented and superimposed by a semiautomatic algorithm developed in MATLAB R2022a. The condylar geometries were reconstructed using dedicated software for image segmentation. Two geometrical parameters, i.e., the total volume and surface of the single condyle model, were selected to quantify the intraclass and interclass variability from the mean of each DICOM series (CBCT and MRI). The final comparison between the reference standard model of CBCT and 3T MRI showed that the former was more robust in terms of reproducibility, while the latter reached a higher standard deviation compared to CBCT, but these values were similar between the operators and clinically not significant. Within the inherent limitation of image reconstruction on MRI scans due to the current lower resolution of this technique, the method proposed here could be considered as a nucleus for developing future completely automatic AI algorithms, owing to its great potential and satisfactory consistency among different times and operators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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17 pages, 2108 KiB  
Article
Plasma Rich in Growth Factors in Bone Regeneration: The Proximity to the Clot as a Differential Factor in Osteoblast Cell Behaviour
by Eduardo Anitua, Mar Zalduendo, Roberto Tierno and Mohammad Hamdan Alkhraisat
Dent. J. 2024, 12(5), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12050122 - 24 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1405
Abstract
The osteogenic differentiation process, by which bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and osteoprogenitors transform into osteoblasts, is regulated by several growth factors, cytokines, and hormones. Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) is a blood-derived preparation consisting of a plethora of bioactive molecules, also [...] Read more.
The osteogenic differentiation process, by which bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and osteoprogenitors transform into osteoblasts, is regulated by several growth factors, cytokines, and hormones. Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) is a blood-derived preparation consisting of a plethora of bioactive molecules, also susceptible to containing epigenetic factors such as ncRNAs and EVs, that stimulates tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the PRGF clot formulation on osteogenic differentiation. Firstly, osteoblast cells were isolated and characterised. The proliferation of bone cells cultured onto PRGF clots or treated with PRGF supernatant was determined. Moreover, the gene expression of Runx2 (ID: 860), SP7 (ID: 121340), and ALPL (ID: 249) was analysed by one-step real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Additionally, alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) activity determination was performed. The highest proliferative effect was achieved by the PRGF supernatant in all the study periods analysed. Concerning gene expression, the logRGE of Runx2 increased significantly in osteoblasts cultured with PRGF formulations compared with the control group, while that of SP7 increased significantly in osteoblasts grown on the PRGF clots. On the other hand, despite the fact that the PRGF supernatant induced ALPL up-regulation, significantly higher enzyme activity was detected for the PRGF clots in comparison with the supernatant formulation. According to our results, contact with the PRGF clot could promote a more advanced phase in the osteogenic process, associated to higher levels of ALPL activity. Furthermore, the PRGF clot releasate stimulated a higher proliferation rate in addition to reduced SP7 expression in the cells located at a distant ubication, leading to a less mature osteoblast stage. Thus, the spatial relationship between the PRGF clot and the osteoprogenitors cells could be a factor that influences regenerative outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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13 pages, 3804 KiB  
Article
In Vivo Evaluation of Regenerative Osteogenic Potential Using a Human Demineralized Dentin Matrix for Dental Application
by Nessma Sultan and Soher Nagi Jayash
Dent. J. 2024, 12(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12030076 - 18 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1698
Abstract
Background: The use of a demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) has garnered substantial importance in dentistry. This study was carried out to evaluate the osteoinductive performance of DDM in comparison to nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) on calvarial critical-sized bone defect. Methods: Two critical-sized defects (CSDs) were [...] Read more.
Background: The use of a demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) has garnered substantial importance in dentistry. This study was carried out to evaluate the osteoinductive performance of DDM in comparison to nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) on calvarial critical-sized bone defect. Methods: Two critical-sized defects (CSDs) were bilaterally trephined in the calvarium of sixteen healthy white rabbits. The rabbits were categorized into four groups: in group 1, the defect was left empty; in group 2, defects were filled with sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel as a sole material; in group 3, defects were treated with nano-hydroxyapatite hydrogel (NHH); in group 4, defects were treated using demineralized dentin matrix hydrogel (DDMH). Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were carried out to evaluate the total areas of newly formed bone. Results: The DDMH group showed that new woven bone tissue progressively bridged the defect area while there was no bone in the control group. Collagen expression was significantly different in the DDMH- and NHH-treated groups compared to in the SA group at 4 and 8 weeks (p < 0.01). OCN expression was significantly higher in the DDMH group in comparison to in the NHH or SA groups at 8 weeks (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The DDMH group exhibited significantly higher levels of new bone formation compared to the NHH group at both 4 and 8 weeks post-surgically. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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12 pages, 3538 KiB  
Article
PRF Lysates Enhance the Proliferation and Migration of Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cell Lines
by Layla Panahipour, Rebecca Croci, Sara Guarnieri and Reinhard Gruber
Dent. J. 2023, 11(10), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj11100242 - 19 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2298
Abstract
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous fibrin-rich matrix where activated platelets and leucocytes accumulate. PRF has a wide spectrum of clinical indications with the overall aim of supporting tissue regeneration which in dentistry includes the healing of healthy oral mucosa with epithelial cells. [...] Read more.
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous fibrin-rich matrix where activated platelets and leucocytes accumulate. PRF has a wide spectrum of clinical indications with the overall aim of supporting tissue regeneration which in dentistry includes the healing of healthy oral mucosa with epithelial cells. In oral squamous cell carcinoma lesions, however, epithelial cells undergo malignant transformation, indicated by their unrestricted proliferation and migration potential, which should not be further enhanced by a wound-healing formula. Yet, little is known about how oral squamous cell carcinomas respond to PRF lysates. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to test the capacity of PRF lysates to change the transcriptome of HSC2 oral squamous carcinoma cells and perform bioassays to support the findings. Based on the RNAseq analysis, PRF lysates caused an increase in the genes functionally linked to cell replication and migration. In support of this screening approach, PRF lysates enhanced the proliferation of HSC2 oral squamous carcinoma cells, as indicated by 3[H]-thymidine incorporation, cell counting, and the expression of proliferation-related genes. Moreover, PRF lysates sped up cell migration in a scratch assay requiring actin polymerization. Taken together, our data showing that PRF lysates are mitogenic and stimulate motility of oral squamous carcinoma cell lines could be an indication that treatment with PRF in cases of oral carcinoma should be carefully considered. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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12 pages, 3670 KiB  
Article
Semaphorin 4D Induces Vasculogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells
by Najla Al Turkestani, Zhaocheng Zhang and Jacques Eduardo Nör
Dent. J. 2023, 11(7), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj11070160 - 27 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1674
Abstract
This work aimed to evaluate the effect of Semaphorin 4D (SEMA4D) signaling through Plexin B1 on the vasculogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells. We assessed the protein expression of SEMA4D and Plexin B1 in dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) from permanent human [...] Read more.
This work aimed to evaluate the effect of Semaphorin 4D (SEMA4D) signaling through Plexin B1 on the vasculogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells. We assessed the protein expression of SEMA4D and Plexin B1 in dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) from permanent human teeth and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous (SHED) teeth using Western blots. Their expression in human dental pulp tissues and DPSC-engineered dental pulps was determined using immunofluorescence. We then exposed dental pulp stem cells to recombinant human SEMA4D (rhSEMA4D), evaluated the expression of endothelial cell differentiation markers, and assessed the vasculogenic potential of rhSEMA4D using an in vitro sprouting assay. Lastly, Plexin B1 was silenced to ascertain its role in SEMA4D-mediated vasculogenic differentiation. We found that SEMA4D and Plexin B1 are expressed in DPSC, SHED, and human dental pulp tissues. rhSEMA4D (25–100 ng/mL) induced the expression of endothelial markers, i.e., vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-2, cluster of differentiation (CD)-31, and tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin-like and EGF-like domains (Tie)-2, in dental pulp stem cells and promoted capillary-like sprouting in vitro (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Plexin B1 silencing abrogated the vasculogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells and significantly inhibited capillary sprouting upon exposure to rhSEMA4D. Collectively, these data provide evidence that SEMA4D induces vasculogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells through Plexin B1 signaling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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16 pages, 2882 KiB  
Article
Effects of Minocycline Hydrochloride as an Adjuvant Therapy for a Guided Bone Augmentation Procedure in The Rat Calvarium
by Bob Biewer, Eric Rompen, Michel Mittelbronn, Gaël P. Hammer, Pascale Quatresooz and Felix Kleine Borgmann
Dent. J. 2023, 11(4), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj11040092 - 31 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1790
Abstract
This in vivo study reports the influence of minocycline-HCl administration on extra-skeletal bone generation in a Guided Bone Augmentation model, utilizing titanium caps placed on the intact as well as perforated calvaria of rats. The test group was administered 0.5 mg/mL minocycline-HCl with [...] Read more.
This in vivo study reports the influence of minocycline-HCl administration on extra-skeletal bone generation in a Guided Bone Augmentation model, utilizing titanium caps placed on the intact as well as perforated calvaria of rats. The test group was administered 0.5 mg/mL minocycline-HCl with the drinking water, and the amount of bone tissue in the caps was quantified at three time points (4, 8 and 16 weeks). A continuously increased tissue fill was observed in all groups over time. The administration of minocycline-HCl as well as perforation of the calvaria increased this effect, especially with regard to mineralization. The strongest tissue augmentation, with 1.8 times that of the untreated control group, and, at the same time, the most mineralized tissue (2.3× over untreated control), was produced in the combination of both treatments, indicating that systemic administration of minocycline-HCl has an accelerating and enhancing effect on vertical bone augmentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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Review

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13 pages, 394 KiB  
Review
Leveraging Dental Stem Cells for Oral Health during Pregnancy: A Concise Review
by Aida Meto, Ana Sula, Samuele Peppoloni, Agron Meto and Elisabetta Blasi
Dent. J. 2024, 12(5), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12050127 - 7 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1370
Abstract
Pregnancy induces significant changes in oral health because of hormonal fluctuations, making it a crucial period for preventive measures. Dental stem cells (DSCs), particularly those derived from the dental pulp and periodontal ligaments, offer promising avenues for regenerative therapies and, possibly, preventive interventions. [...] Read more.
Pregnancy induces significant changes in oral health because of hormonal fluctuations, making it a crucial period for preventive measures. Dental stem cells (DSCs), particularly those derived from the dental pulp and periodontal ligaments, offer promising avenues for regenerative therapies and, possibly, preventive interventions. While the use of DSCs already includes various applications in regenerative dentistry in the general population, their use during pregnancy requires careful consideration. This review explores recent advancements, challenges, and prospects in using DSCs to address oral health issues, possibly during pregnancy. Critical aspects of the responsible use of DSCs in pregnant women are discussed, including safety, ethical issues, regulatory frameworks, and the need for interdisciplinary collaborations. We aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of leveraging DSCs to improve maternal oral health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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Other

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18 pages, 1731 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immunomodulatory Effects of Endodontic Sealers: A Systematic Review
by Jindong Guo, Ove A. Peters and Sepanta Hosseinpour
Dent. J. 2023, 11(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj11020054 - 17 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2534
Abstract
Inflammation is a crucial step prior to healing, and the regulatory effects of endodontic materials on the immune response can influence tissue repair. This review aimed to answer whether endodontic sealers can modulate the immune cells and inflammation. An electronic search in Scopus, [...] Read more.
Inflammation is a crucial step prior to healing, and the regulatory effects of endodontic materials on the immune response can influence tissue repair. This review aimed to answer whether endodontic sealers can modulate the immune cells and inflammation. An electronic search in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were performed. This systematic review was mainly based on PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was evaluated by SYRCLEs and the Modified CONSORT checklist for in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. In total, 28 articles: 22 in vitro studies, and six in vivo studies were included in this systematic review. AH Plus and AH 26 can down-regulate iNOS mRNA, while S-PRG sealers can down-regulate p65 of NF-κB pathways to inhibit the production of TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested that various endodontic sealers exhibited immunomodulatory impact in macrophages polarization and inflammatory cytokine production, which could promote healing, tissue repair, and inhibit inflammation. Since the paradigm change from immune inert biomaterials to bioactive materials, endodontic materials, particularly sealers, are required to have modulatory effects in clinical conditions. New generations of endodontic sealers could hamper detrimental inflammatory responses and maintain periodontal tissue, which represent a breakthrough in biocompatibility and functionality of endodontic biomaterials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Approaches in Dental Sciences)
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