Cuproptosis Aggravates Pulpitis by Inhibiting the Pentose Phosphate Pathway

C-glucose stable isotope-tracing experiment to assess the effect of glucose utilization on cuproptosis. Excessive copper hindered the PPP, resulting in an inadequate generation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate to replenish glutathione and counteract copper toxicity. The PPP regulates the phenotype, function, and survival of preodontoblast-like cells in cuproptosis. Our findings revealed the intricate interplay among bacteria, copper homeostasis, and metabolic reprogramming, providing potential strategies for host-targeted therapy in pulpitis.