Specific microRNAs Regulate Dental Pulp Stem Cell Behavior

Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs, control the translation of messenger RNAs into proteins. miRNAs have a crucial role in regulating the diverse biological processes of many physiological and pathological activities. The aim of this systematic review was to explore various functions of miRNAs in the regulation of dental pulp stem cell (DPSC) behavior.

Methods: The articles were searched in PubMed, SCOPUS, and ISI Web of Science database using designated keywords. Full-length manuscripts published in English in peer-reviewed journals relevant to the role of miRNAs in DPSC functions were included and reviewed by 2 independent researchers.

Results: The original search of the database generated 299 studies. A total of 102 duplicate studies were removed. After their exclusion, 48 studies were selected for review. miRNAs have shown to modulate the stemness and differentiation of various mesenchymal stem cells. The miRNAs expression profiles in DPSCs were differed compared with other cell types and have been demonstrated to regulate the levels of proteins crucial for promoting or inhibiting DPSC proliferation as well as differentiation. Further, miRNAs also modulate inflammatory processes in dental pulp.

Conclusion: miRNAs have various functions on the regulation of DPSCs and understanding these roles of miRNAs is crucial for the development of new therapeutics in regenerative dental medicine. With the advancing technologies, the utilization of miRNA technology could revolutionarily change the future of regenerative endodontics.