Using Co-Culture System to Differentiate Periodontal Ligament-Derived Stem Cell to Ductal Salivary Gland Cells Publisher



Koopaie M¹ ; Biglar S¹ ; Sheykhbahaei N¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Stomatology Published:2022

Abstract

Introduction: Irreversible harm to salivary glands is a complication that is treated using symptomatic treatment only. Stem cell therapy provides a new approach in treating irreversible harm to the salivary glands. Salivary gland's ductal cells transport saliva and change its' composition. Co-culture is a regulatory cell culture technique, in which two or more different cell populations grow with various degrees of interaction. Objectives: Given the role of salivary glands ductal cells in their final saliva production, this study aimed to examine the differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDL-SCs) in salivary glands ductal cells using the co-culture technique. Material and methods: PDL-SCs were isolated from adult human PDL tissue and co-cultured with rat parotid ductal cells using an indirect co-culture system. Trans-differentiation of PDL-SCs was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of kallikrein 1 and keratin 19 genes, with unique functional expression in ductal cells. Results: Expression of CD90, CD73, CD44, and CD105 mesenchymal markers were proved that the obtained PDL-SCs were mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Positive oil red and alizarin red staining showed differentiation of stem cells into fat and bone cells. Expression of kallikrein 1 and keratin 19 demonstrated successful transdifferentiation of PDL-SCs into salivary ductal cells after co-culturing for three weeks. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential usefulness of the co-culture system in the differentiation of PDL-SCs-derived mesenchymal stem cells into salivary gland ductal cells. The proximity of mesenchymal stem cells to salivary acinar cells and the expression of acinar cells' specific markers lead to differentiation. © 2022 Polish Dental Association.