PTH/SDF-1 cotherapy promotes proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells

ObjectivesStromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) plays an important role in tissue regeneration in various tissues including the periodontium. A potential limitation for its use derives from its sensitivity to cleavage by dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV). Parathyroid hormone (PTH) reduces enzymatic activity of DPP-IV and is suggested to be a promising agent for periodontal tissue repair. The purpose of this study was to provide insight into how SDF-1 and intermittent PTH treatment might affect proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) in vitro. Materials and methodsPDLSCs were isolated by the limiting dilution method. Surface markers were quantified by flow cytometry. Cell-counting kit-8 (CCK8), cell migration assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, alizarin red staining and RT-PCR were used to determine viability, migration and osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. ResultsPDLSCs were positive for CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD166 and STRO-1 and negative for CD14, CD34 and CD45. PTH/SDF-1 cotherapy significantly promoted cell proliferation, chemotactic capability, ALP activity and mineral deposition (P<.05). Gene expression level of bone sialoprotein (BSP), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osteocalcin (OCN) were all up-regulated (P<.05). ConclusionsPTH/SDF-1 cotherapy promoted proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs in vitro. Cotherapy seemed to have potential to promote periodontal tissue regeneration by facilitating chemotaxis of PDLSCs to the injured site, followed by promoting proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of these cells.