Osteopontin interacts with dendritic cells and macrophages in pulp inflammation: Comprehensive transcriptomic analysis and laboratory investigations

The current findings suggest that OPN can serve as a promising biomarker for pulpitis, correlated with DCs and macrophages. OPN⁺ macrophages in the inflamed pulp are associated with M2b-like phenotypes. These insights offer the potential for improved diagnosis and targeted therapy.