Deciphering the spatial distribution of Gli1-lineage cells in dental, oral, and craniofacial regions.

ABSTRACT

The craniofacial bone, crucial for protecting brain tissue and supporting facial structure, undergoes continuous remodeling through mesenchymal (MSCs) or skeletal stem cells (SSCs) in their niches. Gli1 is an ideal marker for labeling MSCs and osteoprogenitors in this region, and Gli1-lineage cells are identified as pivotal for bone growth, development, repair, and regeneration. Despite its significance, the distribution of Gli1-lineage cells across the dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) regions remains to be systematically explored. Utilizing tissue-clearing and light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) with a Gli1CreER; tdTomatoAi14 mouse model, we mapped the spatial distribution of Gli1-lineage cells throughout the skull, focusing on calvarial bones, sutures, bone marrow, teeth, periodontium, jaw bones, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). We found Gli1-lineage cells widespread in these areas, underscoring their significance in DOC regions. Additionally, we observed their role in repairing calvarial bone defects, providing novel insights into craniofacial biology and stem cell niches and enhancing our understanding of stem cells and their progeny's behavior in vivo.

This study investigates the presence and role of a specific stem cell population, known as Gli1-lineage cells, in various parts of the skull and facial bones. Using advanced imaging techniques, we found that these cells are widely distributed across the dental, oral, and craniofacial regions, especially in the cranial sutures, teeth, and jaw. Notably, Gli1-lineage cells migrate to the injury site, which is essential in bone repair and regeneration. These findings enhance our understanding of how stem cells contribute to healing and development in the craniofacial region.