Analysis of the Contribution of Nonresident Progenitor Cells and Hematopoietic Cells to Reparative Dentinogenesis Using Parabiosis Model in Mice

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze the contribution of nonresident progenitor/stem cells and hematopoietic cells to reparative dentinogenesis. Methods: Parabiosis was established between C57BL/6-TgN(ACTbEGFP)10sb/J transgenic mice (GFP+) and C57BL/6 wild-type mice (GFP-) to ensure blood cross-circulation between animals. Reparative dentinogenesis was stimulated by pulp exposures and capping on the first maxillary molar in the GFP- mice. Histologic sections of injured molars from GFP- Mice were analyzed by epifluorescence microscopy to examine the contributions of GFP+ cells (nonresident progenitor cells and hematopoietic cells originating from GFP+ mice) to reparative dentinogenesis. Results: GFP+ cells were detected in close association with reparative dentin formed at the site of pulp exposure in the maxillary first molars of the GFP- mice. Conclusions: The present study suggests the participation of the nonresident progenitor cells and hematopoietic cells in reparative dentinogenesis. (J Endod 2012;38:1214-1219)