Expression of CD-106 (VCAM-1) in Erupted and Unerupted Tooth Pulp

Objectives: The aim of this to investigate the existence of CD 106 vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) endothelial antigen in unerupted and erupted human third molars using an indirect immunopoeroxidase and immunofluorescent technique. Methods: Impacted and fully-erupted third molars (n=10/grup) were extracted after which dental pulps were removed atraumatically and immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen. Tissues were furter kept at -70°C until sectioning. Cryostat sections (6-8µm thick) were taken on gelatin-coated slides and kept in humidity-free containers at room temperature until the staining was performed during the following week. Routine indirect immunoperoxidase technique and immunofluorescent techniques were used to stain monoclonal antibody-recognizing CD 106 molecules. Results: While there was no expression of CD 106 in impacted teeth, fully erupted molar pulps showed weak expression of CD 106. Conclusions:Results obtained herein suggest development of CD 106 antigen receptors at the post-eruptive-phase.