Molecular characterisation of odontoblast during primary, secondary ...

Introduction
Dendritic cells capture antigens and move these to the lymphatic nodes, where they
are presented to T-lymphocytes. Then, these activated T lymphocytes return to the
damaged pulp. In this way, the host is immunised and will automatically respond to
the future presence of these antigens. Other molecules, such as those of the TGF-β
super-family, which have been liberated from the dentine during the mineralisation
process, are able to regulate the immune system of the pulp (Farges, Romeas et al.
2003).
Dendritic cells also interact with nerve fibres and blood vessels within the pulp. The
neuro-immunological response of the pulp is presumed to be one of the first
inflammatory reactions of the dentine-pulp complex (Jontell, Okiji et al. 1998;
Farges, Keller et al. 2009).
1.3.5 Dental pulp stem cells
The growing interest in stem cells by the scientific community is a key area in dental
research. The description of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) (Gronthos, Mankani et al.
2000) inside the pulp parenchyma demonstrated that the dental organ provides a
“niche” environment for replacement cells. Another population of stem cells has also
been reported in the pulp of deciduous teeth. These cells, or SHED (stem cells from
human exfoliated deciduous teeth) (Miura, Gronthos et al. 2003), are singularly
interesting because they are relatively easy to collect when the deciduous tooth is
shed and replaced by the permanent successor.
More recently, a further group of mesenchymal stem cells has been reported in the
apical papilla of human immature teeth. These pluripotent cells have been termed
Stem Cells of Apical Papilla (SCAP) (Huang, Sonoyama et al. 2008). Since they may be
bone marrow-derived cells, SCAPS have potential for osteogenic and dentinogenic
differentiation. Growth factor receptor genes are similar on SCAPs and DPSCs. SCAPs
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