The Effect of Cell Source on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Behavior and Osteogenic Differentiation of Buccal Fat Pad and Dental Pulp Stem Cells, an In Vitro Study

Abstract

Objective: The buccal fat pad is a source of adipose stem cells accessible from the oral cavity and dental pulp is a common dental source of stem cells. This study aimed to assess the biological behaviors and osteogenic differentiation of human buccal fat pad adipose-derived stem cells (hBFP-ADSCs) and human dental pulp derived stem cells (hDPSCs). Material and Methods: Buccal fat pads (595.4±80 mg) and dental pulp from 2 wisdom teeth were obtained from 3 matched donors and hBFP-ADSCs and hDPSC cells, respectively, and isolated. The isolated cells were sequentially expanded through passages 5, 10, and 15 for analysis. Cell growth, osteogenic differentiation, and cell senescence were investigated. Results: HBFP-ADSCs and hDPSCs exhibited different cell morphologies and behaviors. Cell expansion was associated with the decrease of cell growth and in vitro mineralization of hDPSCs. The cell yields of hBFP-ADSCs and hDPSCs at the primary passage were 3.2x105±9.9x103 cells/100 mg and 1.13x106±2.4x105 cells/tooth, respectively. The expanded cells exhibited a limited life span and maintained normal karyotypes at the late cell expansion stage. Conclusion: HBFP-ADSCs showed steady cell growth, high osteogenic differentiation potential, tissue availability, and minimal in vitro cell expansion. The availability and accessibility of hBFP-ADSCs would enable clinical applicability as a stem cell source for bone regeneration.