Fig. 4

Multi-lineage differentiation of hDPSCs (A) and hPDLSCs (B). In order to confirm the stem cell identity of the isolated cells from dental pulp and periodontal ligament, multi-lineage differentiation potential of those cells into adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineages was assessed. Osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs & hPDLSCs was evaluated by Alizarin red staining. Cells assumed a polygonal shape indicating successful differentiation and also dark orange stains indicating nodules of calcification were demonstrated in both groups (left). Chondrogenic differentiation of DPSCs & PDLSCs was assessed by Alcian Blue staining (middle). Cells demonstrated morphology similar to chondrocytes rather than the typical spindle-shaped appearance of stem cells. Blue staining was demonstrated indicating the presence of sulfated glycosaminoglycans by differentiated chondrocytes. Adipogenic differentiation of hDPSCs and hPDLSCs was confirmed by Oil Red O staining (right) and demonstrated lipid droplets in differentiated cells. Accumulation of intracellular lipid droplets can be seen scattered denoting successful differentiation (scale bar 100μm)