Stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth: a narrative synthesis of literature

Abstract

Background: Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth (SHEDs) represent an immature stem cell population, easily accessible without ethical concerns, able to induce pluripotent stem cells and to differentiate in osteoblasts, hepatocytes, adipocytes, neural cells, chondrocytes, myocytes, skin cells and odontoblasts.

Aim: The purpose of this review is to present a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge of SHEDs, through the description of their tissue sources, properties, differentiation potential, and comparative assessment of their advantages for tissue engineering.

Materials and methods: Studies were identified by searching electronic databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, Medscape and Web of Science) from 2003 to 30 September 2013 and scanning references lists of the included publications and of the reviews. No publication date or publication status restrictions were imposed. Only evidence available in English language was reviewed.

Results: A total of 72 studies were identified for inclusion in the review. Clinical heterogeneity didn't allow for meta-analysis but only for a narrative synthesis. The outcomes of the present narrative synthesis are presented separately for methods of isolation and culture, characterization of SHEDs, differentiation in vitro and in vivo, use in animal model, and stem cell banking.

Conclusions: SHEDs display multifactorial potential such as strong and high proliferative capacity, easy accessibility, high viability and multilineage differentiation capacity. Their retrieval is relatively simple and non-invasive, no risks for developing immune reactions or rejection following transplantation exist and no immunosuppressive therapy is needed.