ABSTRACT
Introduction - Scaffolds and cells are two important components in bone tissue engineering. There is a gap of information about stem cell activity next to bone substitutes. Thus, the aim of this in vitro study was to compare the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in presence of freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA). Method and Materials - DPSCs and BMSCs were cultured and placed on mineralized bone allograft. Cell proliferation was analyzed by the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay after 24, 48, and 72 h. To compare the enzymatic activity and mineralization of cells, the alkaline phosphate (ALP) test and alizarin red staining were performed at 30 days. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. Results - The rate of proliferation of DPSCs was higher at 48 and 72 h. ALP activity was significantly higher in DPSCSs (P < 0.05), while alizarin red staining did not show any significant difference between the groups in formation of calcified nodules. DPSCs showed higher cell proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation than BMSCs. Conclusion - Considering the easier and less invasive isolation of DPSCs, a combination of DPSCs and allograft can be a good choice for bone regeneration, especially in the dentoalveolar area.
