Stem cell from the apical papilla (SCAP)

**Stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP)** are a population of mesenchymal stem cells located in the apical papilla tissue at the base of developing dental roots. SCAP are characterized by high proliferative potential, self-renewal capacity, multipotency (ability to differentiate into various cell types such as odontoblasts, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes, neural cells, and hepatocytes), and immunomodulatory properties[1][3][4][5]. They are involved in dental root development, pulp and dentin formation, and have shown promise as a source for tissue regeneration therapies due to their accessibility and unique biological profile[1][3][5]. “Apical papilla mesenchymal stem cell” is not a canonical receptor, enzyme, or traditional drug target but refers to a type of stem cell (SCAP) within the dental apical papilla. Therefore, it is not considered a therapeutic target in the conventional sense[5]. The term is correct as a cell population but not as a single molecular entity.

Other names

SCAPstem cells from apical papillaapical papilla mesenchymal stem celldental apical papilla mesenchymal stem cell