Is mandible derived mesenchymal stromal cells superior in proliferation and regeneration to long bone-derived mesenchymal stromal cells?

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are cells with the characteristic ability of self-renewal along with the ability to exhibit multilineage differentiation. Bone marrow (BM) is the first tissue in which MSCs were identified and BM-MSCs are most commonly used among various MSCs in clinical settings. MSCs can stimulate and promote osseous regeneration. Due to the difference in the development of long bones and craniofacial bones, the mandibular-derived MSCs (M-MSCs) have distinct differentiation characteristics as compared to that of long bones. Both mandibular and long bone-derived MSCs are positive for MSC-associated markers such as CD-73, -105, and -106, stage-specific embryonic antigen 4 and Octamer-4, and negative for hematopoietic markers such as CD-14, -34, and -45. As the M-MSCs are derived from neural crest cells, they have embryogenic cells which promote bone repair and high osteogenic potential. In vitro and in vivo animal-based studies demonstrate a higher rate of proliferation and high osteogenic potential for M-MSCs as compared to long-bones MSCs, but in vivo studies in human subjects are lacking. The BM-MSCs have their advantages and limitations. M-MSCs may be utilized as an alternative source of MSCs which can be utilized for tissue engineering and promoting the regeneration of bone. M-MSCs may have potential advantages in the repair of craniofacial or orofacial defects. Considering the utility of M-MSCs in the field of orthopaedics, we have discussed various unresolved questions, which need to be explored for their better utility in clinical practice.