Characteristic expression of MSX1, MSX2, TBX2, and ENTPD1 in dental pulp cells

Dental pulp cells (DPCs) are a promising source of transplantable cells in regenerative medicine. However, DPCs have not been fully characterized at the molecular level. The purpose of this study was to distinguish DPCs from various source-derived mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts, and other cells by the expression of several DPC-characteristic genes. DPCs were isolated from human pulp tissues by the explant method, or the enzyme digestion method, and maintained with media containing 10% serum or 7.5% platelet-rich plasma. RNA was isolated from the cells and from dental pulp tissue specimens. The mRNA levels were determined by DNA microarray and quantitative real-time PCR analyses.

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