Immunohistochemical localization of tenascin, fibronectin, and type III collagen in human dental pulp.

The distribution of tenascin (TN), fibronectin (FN), and type III collagen (col III) in the extracellular matrix of the connective tissue of normal, inflamed, and hyalinized human dental pulp was studied by immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibodies against these molecules. TN, FN, and col III were present in all normal tissues studied. In areas of hyalinization only col III was observed. None of the molecules studied were seen in areas of inflammatory exudate. Strong staining for TN and FN was found in the periphery of all specimens analyzed next to the odontoblastic layer. We therefore conclude that TN, FN, and col III are present in the extracellular matrix of normal human dental pulp. TN, FN, and col III distribution in inflammatory and degenerative processes is different from that observed in normal human dental pulp.