The potential roles of dental pulp stem cells in peripheral nerve regeneration

Peripheral nerve diseases are significantly correlated with severe fractures or trauma and surgeries, leading to poor life quality and impairment of physical and mental health. Human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are neural crest stem cells with a strong multi-directional differentiation potential and proliferation capacity that provide a novel cell source for nerve regeneration. DPSCs are easily extracted from dental pulp tissue of human permanent or deciduous teeth. DPSCs can express neurotrophic and immunomodulatory factors and, subsequently, induce blood vessel formation and nerve regeneration. Therefore, DPSCs yield valuable therapeutic potential in the management of peripheral neuropathies. With the purpose of summarizing the advances in DPSCs and their potential applications in peripheral neuropathies, this article reviews the biological characteristics of DPSCs in association with the mechanisms of peripheral nerve regeneration.

Automated summary

Peripheral nerve diseases are often caused by severe fractures, trauma, and surgeries, resulting in decreased quality of life and impaired physical and mental health. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) with their strong differentiation potential and proliferation capacity, provide a novel cell source for nerve regeneration. DPSCs can express neurotrophic and immunomodulatory factors, promoting blood vessel formation and nerve regeneration. Therefore, DPSCs hold valuable therapeutic potential in the management of peripheral neuropathies.