Investigations into the basal neural-like properties of dental pulp stem cells reveal they possess a functional type 2 muscarinic receptor which regulates quiescence.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are a population of mesenchyme-derived cells residing within the dental pulp known for their multipotent differentiation potential and neural-like properties. While a functional cholinergic system has been described in various mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) populations, muscarinic receptor mediated cholinergic signalling remains unexplored in DPSCs.

Methods

The expression of neurotransmitter-associated genes was investigated using a targeted array panel and immunocytochemistry. Functionality of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) was confirmed using receptor-specific agonists and antagonists. The effects of type 2 muscarinic receptor (m2AChR) signalling on DPSCs viability and proliferation were evaluated using an LDH release assay, CCK-8 as

SUBMITTER: Alqahtani S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12613501 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature