Induced pluripotent stem cells: A game-changer in dentistry’s regenerative landscape

Abstract

In recent years, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have emerged as a transformative force in regenerative medicine, offering unprecedented opportunities for advancements in various fields. This review explores the revolutionary impact of iPSCs specifically within the realm of dentistry, where regenerative strategies are increasingly sought to address oral and craniofacial tissue defects. iPSCs, derived from somatic cells through reprogramming, exhibit pluripotency and can differentiate into various cell types, including dental-specific lineages such as odontoblasts, ameloblasts, and osteoblasts. The application of iPSCs in dentistry holds immense promise for tissue repair, regeneration, and disease modelling. This review delves into the key aspects of iPSC-based approaches in dental research, covering topics such as tooth regeneration, periodontal tissue engineering, and craniofacial defect repair. We discuss the challenges and advancements in iPSC technology, emphasizing the potential for personalized regenerative therapies tailored to individual patients.