Isolation and characterization of a human cementocyte-like cell line, HCY-23

Author(s)

de Almeida, Amanda Bandeira ; Lira dos Santos, Elis Janaina ; Abuna, Gabriel Flores ; Ribeiro, Cristiane Salmon ; Casati, Marcio Zaffalon ; Silverio Ruiz, Karina Gonzales ; Nociti Junior, Francisco Humberto

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BRAZILIAN ORAL RESEARCH; v. 33, p. 10-pg., 2019-01-01.

Abstract

Cementum is the mineralized tissue covering the tooth root that functions in tooth attachment and post-eruptive adjustment of tooth position. It has been reported to be highly similar to bone in several respects but remains poorly understood in terms of development and regeneration. Here, we investigate whether cementocytes, the residing cells in cellular cementum, have the potential to be protagonist in cementum homeostasis, responding to endocrine signals and directing local cementum metabolism. Cells from healthy erupted human teeth were isolated using sequential collagenase/EDTA digestions, and maintained in standard cell culture conditions. A cementocyte-like cell line was cloned (HCY-23, for human cementocyte clone 23), which presented a cementocyte compatible gene expression signature, including the expression of dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), sclerostin (SOST), and E11/gp38/podoplanin (E11). In contrast, these cells did not express the odontoblast/dentin marker dentin sialoprotein (DSPP). HCY-23 cells produced mineral-like nodules in vitro under differentiation conditions, and were highly responsive to inorganic phosphate (Pi). Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that cementocytes are phosphate-responsive cells, and have the potential do play a key role in periodontal homeostasis and regeneration. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/07232-0 - Isolation and characterization of lineages cementocytes
• Grantee: Amanda Bandeira de Almeida
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 15/06372-2 - Determining the role of cementocytes in dental cementum homeostasis
• Grantee: Francisco Humberto Nociti Junior
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants