Expression of parathyroid hormone-related protein in human inflamed dental pulp

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and the role of the parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTH-rP) in the inflamed pulp. Materials and methods: Thirty-four pulp tissue specimens (24 inflamed and 10 normal pulps) from extracted third molars were studied. The presence of PTH-rP was observed by using immunohistochemistry. Negative controls were performed using non immunized rabbit or mouse serum, omitting the primary antibody. Results: The analysis of all the sections of normal pulps showed the presence of PTHrP positive cells only in the odontoblastic zone and in few fibroblasts. Instead all inflamed pulps showed PTHrP positive cells both in vascular zone and in pulp stroma, as well as in the odontoblastic and subodontoblastic zone. Conclusion: Several works proved that this peptide plays a role even in angiogenesis process, but its function is controversial. It is possible to hypothesize that PTHrP stimulates angiogenesis, but it is recommended to further conduct research on this area.