Signaling molecules / growth factors

Abstract

Preserving the natural dentition in its normal form and function is one of the main objectives of endodontic treatment. Restoring lost vitality and the development of root maturation in immature permanent teeth with pulp necrosis/apical periodontitis is a clinical challenge. In regenerative endodontics, growth factors regulate numerous cellular functions, including migration, regularity, differentiation, and apoptosis of cells involved in the regeneration of the dentin-pulp complex. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms, signaling molecules, and growth factors involved in the regeneration of the dentin-pulp complex is extremely important. Recent work shows that the use of biomaterials to regenerate pulp-dentin tissues promotes the release of growth factors, which can produce tissues similar to pulpal dentin, opening tangible avenues for regenerative endodontics. This chapter synthesizes knowledge about many growth factors and signaling molecules that are known or predicted to be effective in dentin-dental pulp regeneration.