Angiogenic and Migratory Gene Expression Analysis of Stem Cells From Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth for Wound Repair Application

Background: The migration and differentiation of stem cells take place during the reparative phase of the healing cascade. Chemokine ligands and receptors are the key players in the homing process during the early stage of capillary morphogenesis. Stem cells from exfoliated deciduous teeth are known to possess a huge potential benefit for tissue regeneration. However, the gene expression of SHED engaging in angiogenesis and migratory activity during tissue healing is not fully understood. This study aims to assess the gene expression of SHED following in-vitro angiogenesis and migratory induction protocol. Methods: Scratch test assay was conducted following an angiogenic induction of SHED by supplementation of EGM-2 and VEGF. For the detection of migratory cell markers, angiogenic markers, and stem cell markers, RNA samples were extracted on days 1, 3, 7, 10, and 14 after the angiogenic induction in a transwell chamber, followed by RT-PCR analysis. Results: The findings suggested that SHED formed endothelial cells at higher capacity under an immature state with higher seeding density. SHED undergoing angiogenesis and migratory activity showed elevated IL-8, CCR1, CXCR4, and CCL28 expression. CCR1 expression significantly increased in the A+M+ group (p<0.05). Conclusion: The gene expression of these chemokines, particularly CCR1, which closely represent cellular migration, suggests the potential use of SHED for cell-based therapy to enhance tissue repair.