Gene and Cell Therapy in Dental Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

Advanced therapies hold substantial promise for the treatment of periodontal conditions. Gene therapy has the potential to transfer “therapeutic” genes, which express proteins such as bone morphogenetic proteins, osteoprotegerin, and tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase, which is deficient in patients with hypophosphatasia, a condition that affects mineralization of teeth and bone. Transferred genes may also express platelet-derived growth factor, which modulates the growth of periodontal tissue and the alveolar bone. As regards cell therapy, several clinical trials have shown that mesenchymal stem cells, when used with different kinds of scaffolds to enable the required three-dimensional environment, possess a bone regeneration potential that is particularly useful in such disorders as osteoporosis and osteonecrosis, or for regenerating alveolar bone (osseointegration) prior to placing a dental implant. However, much work is still required before these new therapies become true alternatives in routine clinical dental practice. Medical advances require investments, which are usually influenced by the priorities of both politicians and society at large. This will contribute to promoting innovation, efficient treatments, medium- and long-term savings, and a higher quality of life.