Insights Into Pulp Biomineralization in Human Teeth

Introduction Mineralized pulp (MP) compromises tooth function and its causation is unknown. The hypothesis of this study that mineralization associated with pulpal tissue adaptation, increased mineral densities, decreased permeabilities tubular dentin cementum. Methods will include correlative spatial mapping physicochemical biochemical characteristics pulp, contextualize these properties within the dentin-pulp complex (DPC) to reveal inherent vunerabilities pulp. Specimens ( N = 25) were scanned using micro X-ray computed tomography (micro-XCT) visualize MP measure density (MD). Elemental maps acquired synchrotron fluorescence microprobe (μXRF) energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX). Extracted tissues sectioned for immunolabelling sections imaged a light microscope. Microscale morphologies nanoscale ultrastructures scanning electron (SEM) transmission microscopy (STEM) techniques. Results Heterogeneous distribution MD from 200 2,200 mg/cc, an average 892 (±407) mg/cc observed. Highly mineralized number occluded tubules, reduced pore diameter in cementum, connectivity lateral channels H&E, trichrome, von Kossa staining showed lower cell collagen regions biomolecules osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OCN), osterix (OSX), bone sialoprotein (BSP) immunolocalized around PGP 9.5 positive neurovascular bundles MP. SEM STEM revealed wide range nano/micro particulates tubules spherulitic aggregates intrafibrillar surrounding bundles. EDX μXRF elevated counts Ca, P, Mg, Zn inside at interface (DPI) DPC. Conclusion Colocalization physical chemical, biomolecular compositions suggest primary secondary biomineralization pathways level, altered fluid dynamics organ level. Elevated mineralizing front indicated role biomineralization. These observations underpin mechano- chemo-responsiveness DPC help elucidate clinical subtleties related pulpitis, dentin-bridge, stone formation.