OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the theoretical framework of cells and the forms of osteogenesis in the mechanism by which demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) induces osteogenesis. METHODS: A total of 24 New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. A total of 4 erector spinae bags were created in each animal. A total of 3 erector spinae bags were implanted with DDM by random selection, whereas the remaining one erector spinae bag was not implanted with DDM. The rabbits were sacrificed after 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 weeks, and the samples were obtained. The samples were examined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and immunohistochemical staining to identify the mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and osteoclasts. RESULTS: The results of HE staining showed that in the third week, cartilage- and bone-like matrices, as well as the osteoblast-like cells, were observed. The results of immunohistochemical staining showed that the expressions of CD44, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and collagen Ⅱ were statistically significant 
(P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS DDM has good histocompatibility and osteoinduction. In addition, induced ectopic osteogenesis mode mainly occurs in the endochondral bone.
Animals ; Bone Matrix ; Dentin ; Osteoblasts ; Osteogenesis ; Rabbits ; Tooth Demineralization