Molecular Signatures of Peripheral and Central Dental Pulp Subpopulations in Response to <scp> <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> </scp> : A Bulk <scp>RNA</scp> ‐Seq Analysis

Following exposure to S. mutans, mechanically isolated DACs and DPCs displayed distinct transcriptomic profiles, indicating functional heterogeneity in the pulpal immune response. DACs engaged immunomodulatory pathways, while DPCs were marked by cellular stress responses, suggesting divergent contributions to tissue defence and homeostasis.