Pericytes are multipotent cells embedded within the vascular system, primarily surrounding capillaries and microvessels where they closely interact with endothelial cells. These cells are known for their intriguing properties due to their heterogeneity in tissue distribution, origin, and multifunctional capabilities. Specifically, pericytes are essential in regulating blood flow, promoting angiogenesis, and supporting tissue homeostasis and regeneration. These multifaceted roles draw on pericytes’ remarkable ability to respond to biochemical cues, interact with neighboring cells, and adapt to changing environmental conditions. This review aims to summarize existing knowledge on pericytes, emphasizing their versatility and involvement in vascular integrity and tissue health. In particular, a comprehensive view of the major signaling pathways, such as PDGFβ/ PDGFRβ, TGF-β, FOXO and VEGF, along with their downstream targets, which coordinate the behavior of pericytes in preserving vascular integrity and promoting tissue regeneration, will be discussed. In this light, a deeper understanding of the complex signaling networks defining the phenotype of pericytes in healthy tissues is crucial for the development of targeted therapies in vascular and degenerative diseases.

Background/Objectives: Vertical ridge augmentation remains a critical challenge in implant dentistry for addressing inadequate alveolar bone height. The inlay technique, or sandwich osteotomy, has gained attention for its potential to improve graft vascularization and predictability. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of the inlay technique. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Cochrane Library and Medline databases for studies published from 2015 to 2025 to capture the most recent studies and advancements specifically focusing on the inlay technique. Inclusion criteria encompassed observational and interventional studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort and case series with a focus on outcomes related to the inlay technique. Key outcomes were extracted and analyzed, including implant survival rates, MBL, vertical bone gain, and surgical complications. Results: Eleven studies involving 352 patients and more than 612 implants were included, with a mean follow-up of 2.27 ± 2.69 years (range: 4 months to 8 years). The implant survival rates ranged from 84.5% to 100%. Mean vertical bone gain varied from 2.69 to 4.4 mm. Complications were fewer with the inlay technique compared to onlay and other grafting methods, with significantly reduced graft-related failures and soft tissue issues. Conclusions: The inlay technique shows good vertical bone augmentation with high implant survival rates and fewer complications compared to other reconstructive techniques. Longer follow-up studies are needed to support its value in managing vertically deficient ridges. Moreover, further studies with extended follow-up are required to evaluate long-term marginal bone loss.