Enhanced adipogenic differentiation and reduced collagen synthesis induced by human periodontal ligament stem cells might underlie the negative effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 on periodontal regeneration.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is a potent inducer for the regeneration of mineralized tissue, but has a limited effect on the regeneration of cementum and periodontal ligament (PDL). The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of rhBMP-2 on the in vitro and in vivo biologic activity of well-characterized human PDL stem cells (hPDLSCs) and to elucidate the underlying mechanism of minimal periodontal regeneration by rhBMP-2.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: hPDLSCs were isolated and cultured, and then transplanted into an ectopic subcutaneous mouse model using a carrier treated either with or without rhBMP-2. Comprehensive histologic, histometric and immunohistochemical analyses were performed after an 8-wk healing period. The effects of rhBMP-2 on the adipogenic and osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs were also evaluated. The effect of rhBMP-2 on both soluble and insoluble collagen synthesis was analyzed, and the expression of mRNA and protein for collagen types I, II, III and V was assessed.

RESULTS: In the present study, rhBMP-2 promoted both adipogenic and osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in vitro, and the in vivo potential of hPDLSCs to form mineralized cementum and organized PDL tissue was down-regulated following treatment with rhBMP-2. Collagen synthesis, which plays a crucial role in the regeneration of cementum and the periodontal attachment, was significantly reduced, with associated modification of the relevant mRNA and protein expression profiles.

CONCLUSION: In summary, the findings of the present study suggest that enhanced adipogenic differentiation and inhibition of collagen synthesis by hPDLSCs appear to be partly responsible for the minimal effect of rhBMP-2 on cementum and PDL tissue regeneration by hPDLSCs