Dental Medicine applications of stem cells

Investigation using stem cells started in 1960 with the discovery of the first viable source of these cells: bone marrow. Several studies detailed their role in tissue renewal and regeneration after damage, as well as its characterization as a heterogeneous group of undifferentiated cells called ‘clonogenic’ (defined by their self-renewal capacity and differentiation into mature cells). Nowadays, these cells have gained popularity as a therapeutic alternative for many diseases such as diabetes, congenital abnormalities, nervous tissue injuries, Parkinson, pulpal exposure, periodontal defects, loss of teeth, Alzheimer and other degenerative disorders. Studies have also helped to identify five populations of stem cells of dental origin (DPSCs, SHEDs, DFPCs, SCAPs and PDLCs). Additional research into stem cell therapy is still required, however, the use of these cells in tissue engineering is considered obligatory as it has the potential to provide new tools for regenerative medicine via the combined use of biomaterials and biological agents. It offers highly desirable biomimetic principles and, as stated by ‘conservation practitioners’, regenerative medicine is the most promising way for the development of personalized medicine. For these reasons, results on stem cell research have triggered much debate and high expectations in the field of tissue engineering.