Localization of STRO-1, BMP-2/-3/-7, BMP receptors and phosphorylated Smad-1 during the formation of mouse periodontium

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and BMP receptors (BMPRs) are known to regulate the development of calcified tissues by directing mesenchymal precursor cells differentiation. However, their role in the formation of tooth-supporting tissues remains unclear. We investigated the distribution pattern of STRO-1, a marker of mesenchymal progenitor cells and several members of the BMP pathway during the development of mouse molar periodontium, from the post-natal days 6 to 23 (D6 to D23). STRO-1 was mainly localized in the dental follicle (DF) at D6 and 13 then in the periodontal ligament (PDL) at D23. BMP-2 and -7 were detected in Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) and in DF, then later in differentiated periodontal cells. BMP-3 was detected after D13 of the periodontal development. BMPRs-Ib, -II, the activin receptor-1 (ActR-1) and the phosphorylated Smad1 were detected in DF and HERS at D6 and later more diffusely in the periodontium. BMPR-Ia detection was restricted to alveolar bone. These findings were in agreement with others data obtained with mouse immortalized DF cells. These results suggest that STRO-1 positive DF cells may be target of BMPs secreted by HERS. BMP-3 might be involved in the arrest of this process by inhibiting the signaling provided by cementogenic and osteogenic BMPs.