[Effect of epidermal growth factor on transcription of MCP-1 in rat dental follicle cells].

Purpose: To study the effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the secretion of monocyte chemotactic protein-one (MCP-1) in rat dental follicle cells.

Methods: Dental follicle was harvested from 4-6 days postnatal Wistar rats and cultured in alpha-MEM with 15% FBS. Cells in the third passage were incubated with EGF at different concentrations to choose the best dosage.

[Reaction of epithelial cell rests of malassez to tooth emergence and occlusal function reaction of epithelial cell rests of Malassez to tooth emergence and occlusal function].

Unlabelled: OBJECTIVE To observe the morphology and proliferation of epithelial cell rests of Malassez (ECRM) during tooth emergence and occlusal function, and to evaluate its roles.

Methods: Cytokeratin 14 (CK14) was applied as special marker of ECRM cells. The morphology and distribution of ECRM were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy.

[Hertwig's epithelial root sheath, bone matrix proteins, and initiation of cementogenesis in mouse teeth].

Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the association between Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS), noncollagenous matrix proteins, and cementogenesis.

Methods: Eighteen BALB/c postnatal mice were divided into five groups according to the developing stages. The mouse teeth were examined at the onset of root development by light and transmission electron microscopy.