Stem cells isolated from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) are a type of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), widely investigated for regenerative treatment. They are isolated from dental pulp tissues remaining in physiologically shedding human deciduous teeth. Thus, SHEDs are easy to access and not required invasive procedure to obtain cells. SHEDs are multipotent mesenchymal stem cells; however, they possess distinct properties when compared to other MSCs. In this regard, SHEDs exhibit higher proliferative rate than bone marrow‐derived MSCs and greater osteogenic differentiation potency than human dental pulp stem cells. This chapter reviews the isolation technique and basic characteristics of SHEDs. Moreover, the intracellular signalling involved in the stemness regulation and differentiation ability of SHEDs is discussed, particularly on fibroblast growth factor, Notch, and Wnt signalling. Finally, the potential regenerative therapeutic application of SHEDs is also described.
Part of the book: Mesenchymal Stem Cells