The stem cells within the gums have the ability to transform into other types of helpful cells for the system, but they can also play a very important role in the relief of inflammatory diseases.
This particular study has been published in the Journal of Dental Research, and the study was led by researchers at the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC. The stem cells found in the gum tissue are called GMSC- or gingival mesenchyme stem cells. According to professor Songtao Shi, the gum tissue is a very special and unique kind of tissue. When compared to the skin, the gingiva heals much faster, and it also has a slower reaction of inflammation compared to other parts of the body.
There are basically two types of GMSC existent:
-the M-GMSC -cells that develop from the embryonic stage and arise from the mesoderm layer of the cells
-the N-GMSC-cells that develop from the cranial neural crest. These types of cells have the ability to transform into many types of highly important structures of both the face and the head. After a thorough analysis and evaluation, it has been found that the N-GMSC cells represent the greatest majority of the gingival stem cells (up to 90%)
The N-GMSC cells can very easily transform into other types of cells, even cells that play an important role in the neural system, or cells which produce cartilage. These cells also have a tremendous power to produce a natural healing effect on all sorts of inflammatory diseases.
The scientists actually transplanted GMSC cells into lab mice who suffered from inflammation of the colon. It has been noted that after the stem cell therapy the inflammation of the colon was significantly reduced, thanks to the healing, anti -inflammatory effect of these types of cells.
Gingival stem cells can be extracted very easily from the gums through biopsy. Researchers state loud and clear that these gingival stem cells will have plenty of beneficial, therapeutic applications in the future.
Researchers say that through the in depth study and analysis of this kind of important oral tissue, they wish to bring to light the fact that gingiva stem cells can play a huge role in the reduction of scar formation or wound healing. Such innovative studies in the health field bring a huge contribution to the therapeutic field.
Thus, patients will be able to recover much faster after a complex surgery for example, through therapy with gingiva stem cell transplantation.