Comparative proteomic analysis of Porphyromonas gingivalis challenged human dental pulp stem cells

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are increasingly recognised for their potential in regenerative medicine, particularly in oral and maxillofacial surgeries. However, the unique microbial environment of the oral cavity necessitates a better understanding of how bacterial challenges may affect DPSC function to optimise their reparative capabilities and potential clinical/therapeutic use. This study focused on identifying and understanding differentially expressed proteins in response to Porphyromonas gingivalis challenge and utilises comparative proteomic methodology of the secretome and whole cell lysates with deeper analysis of differentially expressed proteins using STRINGDB and REACTOME databases to elucidate key proteins and networks. This study identified significant proteomic changes in human DPSCs in response to Pg infection, particularly in growth factor signalling, immune response, and wound healing. These insights advance our understanding of DPSC-pathogen interactions, promoting their potential for regenerative and immunomodulatory therapies against infection.