Platelet rich plasma enhanced neuro-regeneration of human dental pulp stem cells in vitro and in rat spinal cord

Ann Transl Med, 2022 · DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-1745 · Published: May 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study explores using stem cells from teeth, called human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs), to help repair spinal cord injuries. The study also uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which contains growth factors that can help stem cells develop into nerve cells. The researchers found that hDPSCs can turn into nerve cells and that using PRP along with hDPSCs can improve recovery from spinal cord injuries in rats.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

40 Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
hDPSCs exhibit differentiation potential and can transform into neural cells both in vitro and in vivo.
2
Double-treatment with hDPSCs and PRP significantly increased inhibition of neuronal apoptosis compared with the single-treatment groups.
3
Improved motor function recovery of the spinal cord was observed following double-treatment with hDPSCs and PRP compared with the single-treatment groups.

Research Summary

This study investigated the potential of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in treating spinal cord injuries in rats. The researchers found that hDPSCs can differentiate into neural cells and that PRP enhances this differentiation and reduces apoptosis (cell death). The combination of hDPSCs and PRP led to improved motor function recovery in rats with spinal cord injuries, suggesting a promising approach for treating central nervous system disorders.

Practical Implications

Clinical Application

The study suggests that hDPSCs combined with PRP could be a promising therapeutic approach for treating spinal cord injuries and other central nervous system disorders.

Regenerative Medicine

This research contributes to the growing field of regenerative medicine by exploring the potential of stem cells and growth factors in repairing damaged tissues.

Future Research

Further studies are needed to investigate the optimal dosage and delivery methods of hDPSCs and PRP, as well as to assess the long-term effects of this treatment approach.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
2
The mechanisms by which PRP enhances hDPSC differentiation and reduces apoptosis are not fully understood.
3
Long-term effects of the hDPSC/PRP treatment were not assessed.

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