The hands on workshop on “Isolation and characterization of stem cells from dental pulp” was organized exclusively for post graduate students of the department of Endodontics, Saveetha Dental College. The workshop started with a guest lecture on “Mesenchymal Stem cells and its applications” delivered by Dr. D. Ezhilarasan, Scientist, BRULAC. The lecture focused mainly on the sources of MSC, the procedure for culturing and its major applications in the field of medicine and dentistry. The hands-on training was organized by Dr. A. Paramasivam, who demonstrated the methods for processing dental pulp so as to obtain stem cells. The session was followed by isolation of mRNA from stem cells, conversion into cDNA and identification of stem cell markers using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The gel electrophoretogram was obtained and the interpretation of results was taught to the students. The students were interactive and keen in doing the procedures themselves. The programme was a grand success. We would like to thank Dr. Niveditha, Professor, Department of Endodontics for providing the opportunity to conduct the workshop. We would also like to extend our gratitude to Dr, A, Padmaraj, Veterinarian, for his constant support and encouragement.
