Novel Composite Scaffolds for Tooth Regeneration using Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells.

Abstract

In this study, the properties and biocompatibilities of composite scaffolds were investigated to develop an appropriate scaffold for dental tissue regeneration using human dental pulp stem cells. Composite scaffolds consisted of poly-D,L-lactic acid (P(D,L)LA) and bioceramic materials of tooth powders fabricated using sintered teeth. Highly porous composite bioceramic scaffolds promoted biocompatibility and had the interconnected pores that could adequately support cell adhesion and proliferation. Also, we investigated the properties and biocompatibilities of composite scaffolds prepared by a solvent casting/particulate leaching method and a gas forming method. We prepared the composite ceramic scaffold using toothapatites obtained from extracted teeth, and assessed the biocompatibility of the composite scaffolds by the two methods in order to find out the most appropriate scaffolds for tooth regeneration. The human dental pulp stem cells seeded on the composite scaffolds were easily attached and well proliferated as confirmed by a cytotoxicity test, cell adhesion assessment and histological study. Through experimental results, composite bone scaffolds were able to be proven as appropriate scaffolds for dental tissue regeneration using human dental pulp stem cells.