Dental stem cells as a potential tools for regeneration of tooth structures

Abstract

Voluminous research has focused on the identification of sources of adult stem cells in human body. Recent progress on the isolation and regulation of stem cells may enable the future development of novel therapeutic strategies based on the concept of regeneration of damaged or diseased organs. Recently various subpopulations of mesenchymal stem cells were identified in dental tissues, including dental pulp, apical papilla and periodontal ligament. They are considered to offer potential for regeneration of tooth structure and bone. Additionally, dental stem cells can possibly be applied in therapy of other disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease or cardiac ischemia. This review describes the stem cell subpopulations derived from dental tissues and their potential role in tooth regeneration and other therapies.