Role of Adult Stem Cells in Craniofacial Growth and Repair

Adult stem cells play a role in remodeling and regeneration of tissues and organs throughout the life of an organism. Data from adult stem cell studies suggested these cells produce a limited subset of mature cell types; in other words, the cells have limited potency. However, recent findings suggest that these adult stem cells may be capable of giving rise to multiple cell types produced from different germ layers. Adult stem cells have been identified in the craniofacial complex including stem cells from craniofacial bone, dental pulp, periodontal ligament, and developing tooth bud. Utilization of adult stem cells has shown these cells to express markers consistent with differentiated tissues and cell types present within the oral cavity. Currently, studies are using adult stem cells to fabricate new tissues for replacement and regeneration of lost tissues caused by trauma or disease. Additional focus is currently on the mechanism by which these stem cells produce differentiated cells expressing protein markers and having function similar to tissues in which the stem cells were placed. This review discusses discoveries delineating stem cell potency, the critical roles of adult stem cells in the postnatal growth/development as well as remodeling, and recent studies utilizing adult stem cells to repair and/or regenerate craniofacial bone, teeth, periodontium, and temporomandibular joint in clinical protocols.