Intermittent compressive force regulates dentin matrix protein 1 expression in human periodontal ligament stem cells.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Mechanical force differentially regulates periodontal ligament functions depending on types, magnitudes, and duration of stimulation. Intermittent compressive force (ICF) promotes an mineralization in human periodontal ligament cells. The present study investigated the effect of ICF on dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP1) expression in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cells were treated with ICF in a serum-free culture medium for 24 h The mRNA and protein expression were examined using real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

The exposure to ICF in a serum-free condition significantly induced DMP1 expression in both mRNA and protein levels. The effect of ICF-induced expression was inhibited by pretreatment with cycloheximide, indicating the requirement of the intermediated molecule(s). Pretreatment with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) receptor inhibitor (SB431542) or neutralized antibody against TGF-β1 prior to ICF application abolished the effect of ICF-induced expression. Further, recombinant TGF-β1 treatment stimulated expression.

CONCLUSION

The present study illustrated that ICF induces expression in hPDLSCs via the regulation of TGF-β signaling pathway.