Nestin expressions of exposed pulp after direct pulp capping by calcium hydroxide and platelet rich plasma

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate nestin expression of pulp tissue following direct pulp capping with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The thirty sound teeth from Sprague-Dawley rats were used and divided into two groups: Groups 1, teeth were capped with calcium hydroxide/Ca(OH)(2) (n = 15) and Group 2 with PRP (n = 15). After 1(st), 7(th), and 21(st) days, respectively, 5 teeth each group (American Dental Association 41) were processed for light microscopic examination. Expressions of nestin were assessed by immunohistochemical techniques. RESULTS: Nestin expression of Ca(OH)(2) on the distance place of exposure at 1(st) and 7(th) days were 80% and at 21(st) day were 60%. Nestin expression of PRP on the distance place at 1(st) day was 80%, 7(th) 100%, and 21(st) day was 80%. At day 21 observation, Kruskal–Wallis test shows nestin expression was increased significantly in PRP groups (P < 0.05), but it was not increase significantly compare with Ca(OH)(2). CONCLUSION: PRP had ability as a direct pulp capping material to induce nestin expression.