Regulation of Cytoskeleton on Odontoblast Polarization and Dentinogenesis

doi:10.13701/j.cnki.kqyxyj.2026.10.004

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To elucidate the role of cytoskeleton in odontoblast polarity, differentiation, and dentinogenesis. Methods: Cytoskeleton inhibitors were applied to human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Odontogenic differentiation- and polarization-related factors were analyzed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blot. Cell polarity indicators, including Golgi apparatus repositioning, were evaluated using scratch assays and immunofluorescence. In parallel, mandibular tooth germ-containing slices from embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5) mice were cultured ex vivo at the air-liquid interface. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunofluorescence were used to assess tooth germ morphology and size, odontoblast morphology and arrangement, polarity protein localization, and cytoskeletal organization. Results: Both microfilament and microtubule inhibitors reduced the expression of odontogenic differentiation and polarization-related markers, accompanied by decreased cell migration and polarization. In the slice culture experiments, tooth germs in the inhibitor-treated group exhibited delayed development. Odontoblasts lost their characteristic tall columnar morphology and showed disorganized alignment. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed abnormal cytoskeletal remodeling, altered localization of polarity-related proteins, and a reduced rate of odontoblast polarization. Conclusion: Cytoskeletal remodeling affects odontoblast differentiation and polarization, which is a key regulatory factor in tubular dentin formation.

Key words: tooth development, cytoskeleton, odontoblast polarization, cell differentiation, organ slice culture

LIU Haofeng, SUN Yalu, XIE Yuandong, SUN Hongchen, CHANG Bei. Regulation of Cytoskeleton on Odontoblast Polarization and Dentinogenesis[J]. Journal of Oral Science Research, 2026, 42(10): 845-852.

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