Methods: Samples of human MSSM were used for establishing cell cultures or for histological studies. Flow cytometry analysis was performed on P0, P1, P2 cultures using established mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) markers (CD 105, CD 146, CD 71, CD 73, CD 166), and the ability of MSSM cells to undergo osteogenic differentiation in culture was analyzed using in vitro assays. The inherent osteogenic potential of MSSM-derived cells was proved using in vivo transplantation of MSSM-derived cells in conjunction with an osteoconductive scaffold.
Results: in vitro assays showed that MSSM cells could be induced to express Alkaline phosphatase, Bone morphogenic protein-2, Osteopontin, Osteonectin, and Oosteocalcin, and to mineralzie their extracellular matrix. In vivo transplants assay showed by histology analysis bone formation at heterotopic sites.
Conclusion: This study provides the biological background for understanding of the observed clinical phenomena in sinus lifting. Our results prove that a genuine osteogenic potential is associated with the hMSSM and can contribute to development of successful sinus augmentation techniques.