A biocompatible decellularized pulp scaffold for regenerative endodontics

Aim: To investigate the feasibility of decellularizing the entire dental pulp using a mild treatment protocol to develop a decellularized biological extracellular matrix scaffold for use in regenerative endodontic procedures.

Methodology: Decellularized human dental pulps were assessed using histological and immunohistochemical methods, scanning electron microscope and DNA quantification assay. Cytotoxicity assays to determine decellularized scaffold biocompatibility were also performed. Decellularized scaffolds were seeded with human dental pulp stem cells and cell viability assessed using Live/Dead® stain. Quantitative data were analysed statistically using Student's t‐test and one‐way analysis of variance to compare mean values between groups depending on group numbers.

Results: Assessment of decellularized tissues revealed an acellular matrix with preservation of native tissue histoarchitecture and composition. Decellularized tissues showed no evidence of cytotoxicity, with cell growth in direct contact with the scaffold and no reduction in cellular activity following extract incubation. Furthermore, the scaffold was able to support human dental pulp stem cell viability and attachment following recellularization.

Conclusions: Promising results were observed in developing a decellularized biological scaffold derived from the dental pulp with the perseveration of extracellular structural components which are required for tissue‐specific regeneration.