MiR-146a-5p Promotes Dental Stem Cells Osteo/odontogenic Differentiation through NF-Kappa B Signaling Pathway by Targeting TRAF6.

OBJECTIVE

To screen miRNAs that could simultaneously regulate osteo/odontogenic differentiation of multiple stem cells, including dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs).

METHODS

Differentially expressed miRNAs analysis on three miRNA microarrays data of dental stem cells undergoing osteo/odontogenic differentiation (GSE138180, GSE154466 and GSE159508) was performed, and miR-146a-5p were identified by bioinformatic prediction, dual-luciferase reporter assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, differentially expressed genes between miR-146a-5p overexpressed group and control group (GSE79341) were applied for KEGG pathways enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

MiR-146a-5p expression increased in the osteo/odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs, SCAPs and PDLSCs. Tumour necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) was identified as the target gene of miR-146a-5p. Furthermore, miR-146a-5p could influence the NF-Kappa B signalling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that miR-146a-5p could promote differentiation in multiple dental stem cells through the NF-Kappa B signalling pathway by targeting TRAF6.