Attachment of PDL cells on EMP or dentin collagen-applied roots

Objectives: Enamel matrix proteins (MMPs) are a group of proteins which play important roles in tooth development and thought to be effective at periodontal regeneration therapies. There are not many studies about the regenerative properties of dentin collagen, which was shown to be osteoinductive. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of MMPs or dentin collagen on the attachment of periodontal ligament cells on the root surface. Methods: Eighty four root slices were obtained from the forty two lower anterior teeth that had been extracted due to the periodontal disease. The root slices were subjected to one of the following treatments: 1) removal of the cementum, 2) removal of the cementum + EDTA demineralization + MMP, 3) removal of the cementum + dentin collagen, 4) removal of the cementum + EDTA demineralization + dentin collagen. 1.E+05 PDL cells/ml were seeded and incubated for two hours on the dentin surfaces of the roots in each group. Following the incubation the numbers of the attached cells were calculated by XTT and the morphologies of the cells were evaluated by SEM. Results: No significant differences were found among the groups regarding the number of attached cells. However, the mean number of the attached cells was highest in the 2nd group roots in which removal of the cementum + EDTA demineralization + MMP applied. The number of the attached cells was decreased in the 4th and 1st groups, respectively. The number of the attached cells was lowest in the 3rd group. Conclusion: MMPs found effective in the attachment of cells on the root surface which is critical in periodontal regeneration. Further studies needed to be done on the osteoinductive dentin collagen. This study was supported by TUBITAK, HD-04.