Nestin expressions of exposed pulp after direct pulp capping by calcium hydroxide and platelet rich plasma

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate nestin expression of pulp tissue following direct pulp capping with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). MATERIALS AND METHODS The thirty sound teeth from Sprague-Dawley rats were used and divided into two groups: Groups 1, teeth were capped with calcium hydroxide/Ca(OH)2 (n = 15) and Group 2 with PRP (n = 15). After 1(st), 7(th), and 21(st) days, respectively, 5 teeth each group (American Dental Association 41) were processed for light microscopic examination. Expressions of nestin were assessed by immunohistochemical techniques. RESULTS Nestin expression of Ca(OH)2 on the distance place of exposure at 1(st) and 7(th) days were 80% and at 21(st) day were 60%. Nestin expression of PRP on the distance place at 1(st) day was 80%, 7(th) 100%, and 21(st) day was 80%. At day 21 observation, Kruskal-Wallis test shows nestin expression was increased significantly in PRP groups (P < 0.05), but it was not increase significantly compare with Ca(OH)2. CONCLUSION PRP had ability as a direct pulp capping material to induce nestin expression.