Effect of PGE2 induced by compressive and tensile stresses on cementoblast differentiation in vitro

Masticatory habits of the adult Neanderthal individual BD 1 from La Chaise-de-Vouthon (France)

OBJECTIVES

The analysis of dental wear provides a useful approach for dietary and cultural habit reconstructions of past human populations. The analysis of macrowear patterns can also be used to better understand the individual chewing behavior and to investigate the biomechanical responses during different biting scenarios. The aim of this study is to evaluate the diet and chewing performance of the adult Neanderthal Bourgeois-Delaunay 1 (BD 1) and to investigate the relationship between wear and cementum deposition under mechanical demands.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The macrowear pattern of BD 1 was analyzed using the occlusal fingerprint analysis method. We propose a new method for the bilateral measurement of the cementum volume along both buccal and lingual sides of the molar root.

RESULTS

BD 1's anterior dentition is more affected by wear compared to the posterior one. The macrowear pattern suggest a normal chewing behavior and a mixed-diet coming from temperate environments. The teeth on the left side of the mandible display greater levels of wear, as well as the buccal side of the molar crowns. The cementum analysis shows higher buccal volume along the molar roots.

DISCUSSION

BD1 could have been preferably chewing on the left side of the mandible. The exploitation of various food resources suggested by the macrowear analysis is compatible with the environmental reconstructions. Finally, the greater wear on the buccal side of the molar occlusal surface and the greater volume of cementum in that side of the molar roots offers a preliminary understanding about the potential correlation between dental wear and cementum deposition.

Investigation of osteogenesis and angiogenesis in perfusion bioreactors using improved multi-layer PCL-nHA-nZnO electrospun scaffolds

PURPOSE

Bone tissue engineering aims to create a three-dimensional, matured, angiogenic scaffold with a suitable thickness that resembles a natural bone matrix. On the other hand, electrospun fibers, which researchers have considered due to their good biomimetic properties, are considered 2D structures. Due to the highly interwoven network and small pore size, achieving the desired thickness for bone lesions has always been challenging. In bone tissue engineering, bioreactors are crucial for achieving initial tissue maturity and introducing certain signals as flow parameters for differentiation.

METHODS

In the present study, Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were co-cultured in a perfusion bioreactor on treated (improved pore size by gelatin sacrification and subsequent ultrasonication) 5-layer polycaprolactone-nano hydroxyapatite-nano zinc oxide (T-PHZ) scaffolds to investigate osteogenesis and angiogenesis simultaneously. The flow parameters and stresses on the cells were studied using two patterns of parallel and vertical scaffolds relative to the flow of the culture medium. In dynamic vertical flow (DVF), the culture medium flows perpendicular to the scaffolds, and in dynamic parallel flow (DPF), the culture medium flows parallel to the scaffolds. In all evaluations, static samples (S) served as the control group.

RESULTS

Live/dead, and MTT assays demonstrated the biocompatibility of the 5-layer scaffolds and the suitability of the bioreactor's functional conditions. ALP activity, EDAX analysis, and calcium content measurements exhibited greater osteogenesis for T-PHZ scaffolds in DVF conditions. Calcium content increased by a factor of 2.2, 1.8, and 1.6 during days 7 to 14 of culture under DVF, DPF and S conditions, respectively. After 21 days of co-culturing, an immunohistochemistry (IHC) test was performed to investigate angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Five antibodies were investigated in DVF, CD31, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 for angiogenesis, osteocalcin, and RUNX2 for osteogenesis. Compressive stress applied in DVF mode has increased osteogenic activity compared to DPF.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated the development of ideal systems for osteogenesis and angiogenesis on the treated multilayer electrospun scaffolds in the perfusion bioreactor.

Autophagy mediates cementoblast mineralization under compression through periostin/β-catenin axis

Repair of orthodontic external root resorption and periodontal tissue dysfunction induced by mechanical force remains a clinical challenge. Cementoblasts are vital in cementum mineralization, a process important for restoring damaged cementum. Despite autophagy plays a role in mineralization under various environmental stimuli, the underlying mechanism of autophagy in mediating cementoblast mineralization remains unclear. Here we verified that murine cementoblasts exhibit compromised mineralization under compressive force. Autophagy was indispensable for cementoblast mineralization, and autophagic activation markedly reversed cementoblast mineralization and prevented cementum damage in mice during tooth movement. Subsequently, messenger RNA sequencing analyses identified periostin (Postn) as a mediator of autophagy and mineralization in cementoblasts. Cementoblast mineralization was significantly inhibited following the knockdown of Postn. Furthermore, Postn silencing suppressed Wnt signaling by modulating the stability of β-catenin. Together our results highlight the role of autophagy in cementoblast mineralization via Postn/β-catenin signaling under compressive force and may provide a new strategy for the remineralization of cementum and regeneration of periodontal tissue.

Biological characteristics of microRNAs secreted by exosomes of periodontal ligament stem cells due to mechanical force

BACKGROUND

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) has previously been considered an inflammatory process. However, recent studies suggest that exosomes may play an important role in the cellular microenvironment of OTM. microRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the major constituents of exosomes. This study aims to investigate the biological characteristics of miRNAs secreted by exosomes of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) due to mechanical forces.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, we established a mechanical stress model. The PDLSCs were loaded under different force values and exosomes were extracted after 48 h. High-throughput sequencing of exosomal miRNAs was performed to further evaluate their biological functions and underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

The morphology and functions of exosomes were not significantly different between the loading and non-loading PDLSC groups. The optimal loading time and force were 48 h and 1 g/cm2, respectively. After sequencing, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway and network analyses were performed and 10 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified according to a literature search. These are miR-99a-5p, miR-485-3P, miR-29a-3p,miR-21-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR140-3p, miR-1306-5p, miR-126-5p, miR-125a-5p, and miR-23a-3p.

LIMITATIONS

Extracting exosomes needs a large amount of PDLSCs. More functional experiments need to be done to confirm the exact mechanism of exosomal miRNAs of PDLSCs due to mechanical force.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression levels of miRNAs secreted by PDLSC-derived exosomes due to mechanical force were very different compared to PDLSC-derived exosomes under nonmechanical stress. The function of many of the identified exosomal miRNAs was found to be related to osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Further validation is required. A functional investigation of these miRNA could provide novel insights into their mechanism.

Immunorthodontics: Role of HIF-1α in the Regulation of (Peptidoglycan-Induced) PD-L1 Expression in Cementoblasts under Compressive Force

Patients with periodontitis undergoing orthodontic therapy may suffer from undesired dental root resorption. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms resulting in PD-L1 expression of cementoblasts in response to infection with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) peptidoglycan (PGN) and compressive force (CF), and its interaction with hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α molecule: The cementoblast (OCCM-30) cells were kinetically infected with various concentrations of P. gingivalis PGN in the presence and absence of CF. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were performed to examine the protein expression of PD-L1 and HIF-1α as well as their gene expression. Immunofluorescence was applied to visualize the localization of these proteins within cells. An HIF-1α inhibitor was added for further investigation of necroptosis by flow cytometry analysis. Releases of soluble GAS-6 were measured by ELISA. P. gingivalis PGN dose dependently stimulated PD-L1 upregulation in cementoblasts at protein and mRNA levels. CF combined with P. gingivalis PGN had synergistic effects on the induction of PD-L1. Blockade of HIF-1α inhibited the P. gingivalis PGN-inducible PD-L1 protein expression under compression, indicating an HIF-1α dependent regulation of PD-L1 induction. Concomitantly, an HIF-1α inhibitor decreased the GAS-6 release in the presence of CF and P. gingivalis PGN co-stimulation. The data suggest that PGN of P. gingivalis participates in PD-L1 up-regulation in cementoblasts. Additionally, the influence of compressive force on P. gingivalis PGN-induced PD-L1 expression occurs in HIF-1α dependently. In this regard, HIF-1α may play roles in the immune response of cementoblasts via immune-inhibitory PD-L1. Our results underline the importance of molecular mechanisms involved in bacteria-induced periodontics and root resorption.

Apolipoprotein E is an effective biomarker for orthodontic tooth movement in patients treated with transmission straight wire appliances

INTRODUCTION

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is the core component of orthodontic treatment and is increasingly popular for treating malocclusions. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in OTM.

METHODS

Thirty patients treated with transmission straight wire technology were selected and longitudinally tracked at 2 different stages of orthodontic treatment (initial 2 months and 12 months of orthodontic treatment). Total saliva was collected and analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Western blotting was used to detect the difference in ApoE expression in the saliva samples of the 2 groups. The expression of ApoE was further verified by immunohistochemical staining in a mouse model of tooth movement.

RESULTS

The results of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry showed significant differences in the components of the salivary peptides in the 2 groups and peptides with a molecular weight of 2010.7 Da were predicted to be ApoE by database analysis. Western blotting further verified a significant difference in the expression of salivary ApoE in the 2 groups. In addition, an OTM model was successfully constructed in mice. The immunohistochemical staining results showed that ApoE expression significantly increased after force loading in the OTM model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that ApoE participated in and played a role during OTM in patients treated with transmission straight wire technology. This relationship might be related to alveolar bone reconstruction and root resorption. The results provide new ideas for research on the mechanism of tooth movement using precision medicine based on saliva detection.

Current Trends in In Vitro Modeling to Mimic Cellular Crosstalk in Periodontal Tissue

Clinical evidence indicates that in physiological and therapeutic conditions a continuous remodeling of the tooth root cementum and the periodontal apparatus is required to maintain tissue strength, to prevent damage, and to secure teeth anchorage. Within the tooth's surrounding tissues, tooth root cementum and the periodontal ligament are the key regulators of a functional tissue homeostasis. While the root cementum anchors the periodontal fibers to the tooth root, the periodontal ligament itself is the key regulator of tissue resorption, the remodeling process, and mechanical signal transduction. Thus, a balanced crosstalk of both tissues is mandatory for maintaining the homeostasis of this complex system. However, the mechanobiological mechanisms that shape the remodeling process and the interaction between the tissues are largely unknown. In recent years, numerous 2D and 3D in vitro models have sought to mimic the physiological and pathophysiological conditions of periodontal tissue. They have been proposed to unravel the underlying nature of the cell-cell and the cell-extracellular matrix interactions. The present review provides an overview of recent in vitro models and relevant biomaterials used to enhance the understanding of periodontal crosstalk and aims to provide a scientific basis for advanced regenerative strategies.

Leptin reduces in vitro cementoblast mineralization and survival as well as induces PGE2 release by ERK1/2 commitment

Objectives

Juvenile obesity is a complex clinical condition that is present more and more frequently in the daily orthodontic practice. Over-weighted patients have an impaired bone metabolism, due in part to their increased levels of circulating adipokines. Particularly, leptin has been reported to play a key role in bone physiology. Leptin is ubiquitously present in the body, including blood, saliva, and crevicular fluid. If, and to what extent, it could influence the reaction of cementoblasts during orthodontic-induced forces is yet unknown.

Material and methods

OCCM-30 cementoblasts were cultivated under compressive forces using different concentrations of leptin. The expression of ObR, Runx-2, Osteocalcin, Rank-L, Sost, Caspase 3, 8, and 9 were analyzed by RT-PCR. Western blots were employed for protein analysis. The ERK1/2 antagonist FR180204 (Calbiochem) was used and cPLA2 activation, PGE2, and cytochrome C release were further evaluated.

Results

In vitro, when compressive forces are applied, leptin promotes ERK1/2 phosphorylation, as well as upregulates PGE2 and caspase 3 and caspase 9 on OCCM cells. Blockade of ERK1/2 impairs leptin-induced PGE2 secretion and reduced caspase 3 and caspase 9 expression.

Conclusions

Leptin influences the physiological effect of compressive forces on cementoblasts, exerting in vitro a pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic effect.

Clinical relevance

Our findings indicate that leptin exacerbates the physiological effect of compressive forces on cementoblasts promoting the release of PGE2 and increases the rate of cell apoptosis, and thus, increased levels of leptin may influence the inflammatory response during orthodontically induced tooth movement.

Selection and validation of reference genes by RT-qPCR for murine cementoblasts in mechanical loading experiments simulating orthodontic forces in vitro

Different structures and cell types of the periodontium respond to orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) individually. Cementoblasts (OC/CM) located in the immediate vicinity of the fibroblasts on the cement have found way to the centre of actual research. Here, we identify and validate possible reference genes for OC/CM cells by RT-qPCR with and without static compressive loading. We investigated the suitability of 3 reference genes in an in vitro model of cementoblast cells using four different algorithms (Normfinder, geNorm, comparative delta-Ct method and BestKeeper) under different confluences and time. Comparable to our previous publications about reference genes in OTM in rats and human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (hPDLF), Rpl22 in murine OC/CM cells appears as the least regulated gene so that it represents the most appropriate reference gene. Furthermore, unlike to the expression of our recommended reference genes, the expression of additionally investigated target genes changes with confluence and under loading compression. Based on our findings for future RT-qPCR analyses in OC/CM cells, Rpl22 or the combination Rpl22/Tbp should be favored as reference gene. According to our results, although many publications propose the use of Gapdh, it does not seem to be the most suitable approach.

Effect of interleukin-33 on cementoblast-mediated cementum repair during orthodontic tooth movement

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to uncover the role of interleukin-33 on cementoblast-mediated cementum repair.

METHODS

6-8-week-old C57BL/6 mice were used to establish the model of orthodontic tooth movement. Interleukin-33 and suppression of tumorigenicity2 (ST2) expressions were immunohistochemically detected in the periodontal tissue. In vitro, cementoblast-like (OCCM-30) cells were cultured in the presence of recombinant mouse interleukin-33 protein (rmIL-33) at a 1-14 d time frame. ST2 expressions were immunofluorescently labeled and quantitatively examined. The effects of interleukin-33 on cementoblast differentiation, mineralization and proliferation were examined by alkaline phosphatase, alizarin red staining and cell counting kit-8, respectively. To further clarify the effect of interleukin-33 on cementogenesis-related protein expressions, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osterix, osteopontin, bone sialoprotein(BSP), osteocalcin, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of NF-КB ligand (RANKL) expressions were examined by western blot.

RESULTS

Orthodontic load of high magnitude induces external apical root resorption, and increases interleukin-33 expression in the periodontal tissue of mice. Cells in the cementum express ST2. Interleukin-33 initially down-regulates but later recovers ST2 mRNA and protein levels in OCCM-30 cells. Interleukin-33 abates cementoblast differentiation and mineralization, and suppresses RUNX2, osterix, BSP and osteopontin expressions in OCCM-30 cells at the later stage of the culture period. Interleukin-33 enhances RANKL expression, and reduces the ratio of OPG/RANKL in OCCM-30 cells.

CONCLUSION

Orthodontic load of high magnitude induces interleukin-33 expression in the periodontal tissue. Interleukin-33 has a negative effect on cementogenesis via suppressing cementoblast differentiation, mineralization and cementogenesis-related protein expressions.

Biomechanical studies on biomaterial degradation and co-cultured cells: mechanisms, potential applications, challenges and prospects

Biomechanics contains a wide variety of research fields related to biology and mechanics. Actually, to better study or develop a tissue-engineered system, it is now widely recognized that there is no complete nor meaningful study without considering biomechanical factors and the cell response or adaptation to biomechanics. In that respect, this review will focus on not only the influence of biomechanics in biomaterial degradation and co-cultured cells, based on current major frontier research findings, but also the challenges and prospects in biomechanical research. Particularly, through the elaboration of certain typical forces affecting biomaterial degradation and celluar functions, this paper tries to reveal the possible mechanisms, and thus provide ideas on how to design or optimize co-culture systems and apply external forces for proper cell and tissue engineering. Furthermore, while emphasizing the importance of the mechanical control of the cell phenotype and fate, it is expected that these achievements can pave the way to materials-based therapies for different pathological conditions, including diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Intermittent parathyroid hormone promotes cementogenesis in a PKA- and ERK1/2-dependent manner

BACKGROUND

Intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) promotes cementogenesis and provides a promising biotherapeutic to rehabilitate resorbed roots. However, the underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. Cyclic aenosine monophosphate (AMP)-dependent protein kinases A (PKA) and extracellular signal-regulated MAP kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) are key regulators of bone remodeling. The present study aims to investigate whether PKA and ERK1/2 are involved in the process of intermittent PTH-promoted cementogenesis.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats in experimental group (n = 30) received a daily subcutaneous injection of PTH and the control (n = 30) received placebo vehicle for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks. Results were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry staining. In vitro, OCCM-30 cells were incubated with intermittent PTH. H89 and U0126 were used to determine the role of PKA and ERK1/2, respectively. The cementogenic results were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blotting, alkaline phosphatase activity assay and Alizarin Red S staining. The interaction of PKA and p-ERK1/2 was determined by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP).

RESULTS

Intermittent PTH exerted anabolic effect on cellular cementum in developing teeth with elevated expression of osteocalcin, osteopontin, and PKA (catalytic subunit) in PTH injection group. The promoting effects of intermittent PTH on cementogenesis and osteogenic differentiation were abrogated by H89 and U0126 in vitro, respectively. Blocking of PKA pathway downregulated intermittent PTH-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Intermittent PTH promotes cementogenesis in a PKA- and ERK1/2-dependent manner. In this process, PKA and p-ERK1/2 interact with each other. These results support the future biotherapeutic applications of PTH in cementum resorption.

PTH1R signalling regulates the mechanotransduction process of cementoblasts under cyclic tensile stress

Objective

To investigate the regulatory role of type I parathyroid hormone receptor (PTH1R) signalling in the mechanotransduction process of cementoblasts under cyclic tensile stress (CTS).

Materials and methods

Immortalized cementoblast cell line OCCM-30 were employed and subjected to cyclic tensile strain applied by a four-point bending system. The expression of PTHrP and PTH1R, as well as cementoblastic transcription factor Runx-2, Osterix, and extracellular matrix protein COL-1 and OPN were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. PTH1R expression was knocked down by siPTH1R transfection, and the alteration of cementoblastic biomarkers expression was examined to evaluate the function of PTH1R. Furthermore, to investigate possible downstream molecules, expression of signal molecule ERK1/2 with or without siPTH1R transfection, and the effect of ERK inhibitor PD98059 on the expression of cementoblastic biomarkers was also examined.

Results

Cyclic tensile strain elevated the expression of PTHrP and PTH1R, as well as cementoblastic biomarkers Runx-2, Osterix, COL-1, and OPN in a time-dependent manner, which was inhibited by siPTH1R transfection. The expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 was upregulated time-dependently under cyclic stretch, which was also inhibited by siPTH1R transfection, and pretreatment of p-ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 undermined the increase of Runx-2, Osterix, COL-1, and OPN prominently.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study indicate that PTH1R signalling plays a regulatory role in the CTS induced cementoblastic differentiation in mature cementoblasts, and ERK1/2 is essentially involved as a downstream intracellular signal molecule in this mechanotransduction process.

Influence of omega-3 fatty acid on orthodontic tooth movement in rats: A biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical and gene expression study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on orthodontic tooth movement.

SETTING AND SAMPLE POPULATION

For this study, 56 12-week-old adult male Wistar albino rats from the Animal Laboratory at Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine, were used.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 8 each): control group (without any treatment), tooth movement groups (three groups of animals with only tooth movement) and omega groups (three groups of animals with tooth movement and omega-3 administration). Omega-3 fatty acids were administered to the rats systemically during the tooth movement period. On the 3rd, 7th and 14th days after the orthodontic tooth movement, the rats were sacrificed and biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical andgene expression examinations were performed.

RESULTS

On the 14th experimental day, the amount of tooth movement in the omega groups was significantly lower than the tooth movement groups (P = 0.012). Biochemical experimentsshowed that the omega groups had significantly lower total oxidant levels and higher total antioxidant levels compared to the tooth movement group on the 14th experimental day (P = 0.001). The levels of RANKL, IL-6 and IL-1β in the omega groups were significantly lower than the tooth movement groups on all experimental days (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Systemic administration of omega-3 fatty acids showed antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects and decelerate the orthodontic tooth movement.

Computational Investigation on the Biomechanical Responses of the Osteocytes to the Compressive Stimulus: A Poroelastic Model

Osteocytes, the major type of bone cells embedded in the bone matrix and surrounded by the lacunar and canalicular system, can serve as biomechanosensors and biomechanotranducers of the bone. Theoretical analytical methods have been employed to investigate the biomechanical responses of osteocytes in vivo; the poroelastic properties have not been taken into consideration in the three-dimensional (3D) finite element model. In this study, a 3D poroelastic idealized finite element model was developed and was used to predict biomechanical behaviours (maximal principal strain, pore pressure, and fluid velocity) of the osteocyte-lacunar-canalicular system under 150-, 1000-, 3000-, and 5000-microstrain compressive loads, respectively, representing disuse, physiological, overuse, and pathological overload loading stimuli. The highest local strain, pore pressure, and fluid velocity were found to be highest at the proximal region of cell processes. These data suggest that the strain, pore pressure, and fluid velocity of the osteocyte-lacunar-canalicular system increase with the global loading and that the poroelastic material property affects the biomechanical responses to the compressive stimulus. This new model can be used to predict the mechanobiological behaviours of osteocytes under the four different compressive loadings and may provide an insight into the mechanisms of mechanosensation and mechanotransduction of the bone.

Intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) promotes cementogenesis and alleviates the catabolic effects of mechanical strain in cementoblasts

Background

External root resorption, commonly starting from cementum, is a severe side effect of orthodontic treatment. In this pathological process and repairing course followed, cementoblasts play a significant role. Previous studies implicated that parathyroid hormone (PTH) could act on committed osteoblast precursors to promote differentiation, and inhibit apoptosis. But little was known about the role of PTH in cementoblasts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of intermittent PTH on cementoblasts and its influence after mechanical strain treatment.

Results

Higher levels of cementogenesis- and differentiation-related biomarkers (bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteocalcin (OCN), Collagen type I (COL1) and Osterix (Osx)) were shown in 1–3 cycles of intermittent PTH treated groups than the control group. Additionally, intermittent PTH increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralized nodules formation, as measured by ALP staining, quantitative ALP assay, Alizarin red S staining and quantitative calcium assay. The morphology of OCCM-30 cells changed after mechanical strain exertion. Expression of BSP, ALP, OCN, osteopontin (OPN) and Osx was restrained after 18 h mechanical strain. Furthermore, intermittent PTH significantly increased the expression of cementogenesis- and differentiation-related biomarkers in mechanical strain treated OCCM-30 cells.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data suggested that intermittent PTH promoted cementum formation through activating cementogenesis- and differentiation-related biomarkers, and attenuated the catabolic effects of mechanical strain in immortalized cementoblasts OCCM-30.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12860-017-0133-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Screening the Expression Changes in MicroRNAs and Their Target Genes in Mature Cementoblasts Stimulated with Cyclic Tensile Stress

Cementum is a thin layer of cementoblast-produced mineralized tissue covering the root surfaces of teeth. Mechanical forces, which are produced during masticatory activity, play a paramount role in stimulating cementoblastogenesis, which thereby facilitates the maintenance, remodeling and integrity of cementum. However, hitherto, the extent to which a post-transcriptional modulation mechanism is involved in this process has rarely been reported. In this study, a mature murine cementoblast cell line OCCM-30 cells (immortalized osteocalcin positive cementoblasts) was cultured and subjected to cyclic tensile stress (0.5 Hz, 2000 µstrain). We showed that the cyclic tensile stress could not only rearrange the cell alignment, but also influence the proliferation in an S-shaped manner. Furthermore, cyclic tensile stress could significantly promote cementoblastogenesis-related genes, proteins and mineralized nodules. From the miRNA array analyses, we found that 60 and 103 miRNAs were significantly altered 6 and 18 h after the stimulation using cyclic tensile stress, respectively. Based on a literature review and bioinformatics analyses, we found that miR-146b-5p and its target gene Smad4 play an important role in this procedure. The upregulation of miR-146b-5p and downregulation of Smad4 induced by the tensile stress were further confirmed by qRT-PCR. The direct binding of miR-146b-5p to the three prime untranslated region (3' UTR) of Smad4 was established using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Taken together, these results suggest an important involvement of miR-146b-5p and its target gene Smad4 in the cementoblastogenesis of mature cementoblasts.

RANKL and OPG expression: Jiggling force affects root resorption in rats

OBJECTIVE

To immunohistochemically investigate the longitudinal changes in root resorption by jiggling force in experimental animal models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-six 12-week-old male Wistar rats were used. The maxillary first molars were alternately moved in the buccal and lingual direction in 28 rats (experimental group) using an experimental appliance to produce jiggling forces of 10 g. In another 28 rats (control group), the maxillary first molars were moved in only the lingual direction with a force of 10 g. After 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, and 21 days, the maxillae were resected and subjected to immunohistochemical analysis. The resorption area was quantified histomorphometrically and the number of odontoclasts on the root surface was counted. Expression of RANKL and OPG was also examined by immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

The root resorption area and the number of odontoclasts were significantly greater in the experimental group than in controls. Odontoclasts were detected in the resorption lacunae and PDL in the experimental group, whereas osteoclasts were located only along the alveolar bone in controls. OPG was detected on the alveolar bone in the experimental group and on the root surfaces of the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Jiggling force is a critical factor in severe root resorption, affecting RANKL and OPG expression, which accelerates and inhibits odontoclastic induction, respectively.

Apical External Root Resorption and Repair in Orthodontic Tooth Movement: Biological Events

Some degree of external root resorption is a frequent, unpredictable, and unavoidable consequence of orthodontic tooth movement mediated by odontoclasts/cementoclasts originating from circulating precursor cells in the periodontal ligament. Its pathogenesis involves mechanical forces initiating complex interactions between signalling pathways activated by various biological agents. Resorption of cementum is regulated by mechanisms similar to those controlling osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. Following root resorption there is repair by cellular cementum, but factors mediating the transition from resorption to repair are not clear. In this paper we review some of the biological events associated with orthodontically induced external root resorption.

Strontium promotes cementoblasts differentiation through inhibiting sclerostin expression in vitro

Cementogenesis, performed by cementoblasts, is important for the repair of root resorption caused by orthodontic treatment. Based on recent studies, strontium has been applied for osteoporosis treatment due to its positive effect on osteoblasts. Although promising, the effect of strontium on cementoblasts is still unclear. So the aim of this research was to clarify and investigate the effect of strontium on cementogenesis via employing cementoblasts as model. A series of experiments including MTT, alkaline phosphatase activity, gene analysis, alizarin red staining, and western blot were carried out to evaluate the proliferation and differentiation of cementoblasts. In addition, expression of sclerostin was checked to analyze the possible mechanism. Our results show that strontium inhibits the proliferation of cementoblasts with a dose dependent manner; however, it can promote the differentiation of cementoblasts via downregulating sclerostin expression. Taking together, strontium may facilitate cementogenesis and benefit the treatment of root resorption at a low dose.

The effect on proliferation and differentiation of cementoblast by using sclerostin as inhibitor

Cementogenesis is of great importance for normal teeth root development and is involved in the repair process of root resorption caused by orthodontic treatment. As highly differentiated mesenchymal cells, cementoblasts are responsible for this process under the regulation of many endogenous agents. Among these molecules, sclerostin has been much investigated recently for its distinct antagonism effect on bone metabolism. Encoded by the sost gene, sclerostin is expressed in osteocytes and cementocytes of cellular cementum. it is still unclear. In the current study, we investigated the effects of sclerostin on the processes of proliferation and differentiation; a series of experiments including MTT, apoptosis examination, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, gene analysis, and alizarin red staining were carried out to evaluate the proliferation and differentiation of cementoblasts. Protein expression including osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) were also checked to analyze changes in osteoclastogenesis. Results show that sclerostin inhibits cementoblasts proliferation and differentiation, and promotes osteoclastogenesis. Interestingly, the monoclonal antibody for sclerostin has shown positive effects on osteoporosis, indicating that it may facilitate cementogenesis and benefit the treatment of cementum related diseases.

Physiological distal drift in rat molars contributes to acellular cementum formation

Occlusal forces may induce the physiological teeth migration in humans, but there is little direct evidence. Rat molars are known to migrate distally during aging, possibly caused by occlusal forces. The purpose of this study was to determine if a reduction in occlusion would decrease teeth migration and affect associated periodontal structures such as cementum. To reduce occlusal forces, the right upper first molar (M1) in juvenile rats was extracted. The transition of the position of upper second molar (M2) and formation of M2 cementum was followed during aging. From the cephalometric analyses, upper M2 was located more anterior compared with the original position with aging after M1 extraction. Associated with this "slowing-down" of the physiological drift, cementum thickness on distal surface, but not on mesial surface, of M2 root was significantly increased. The accumulation of alizarin red as vital stain indicative of calcification, was observed in the distal cementum of M2 root only on the side of M1 extraction. Extraction of M1 that results in less functional loading, distinctly attenuates the physiological drift only in the upper dentition. The decreased physiological drift appears to activate acellular cementum formation only on distal surface of M2 root, perhaps due to reduced mechanical stress associated with the attenuated distal drift. In conclusion, the physiological distal drift in rat molars appears to be largely driven by the occlusal force and also affects the formation of acellular cementum. These findings provide additional direct evidence for an important role of occlusal forces in tooth migration.

Ultrasound stimulation attenuates resorption of tooth root induced by experimental force application

Root resorption is an adverse outcome of orthodontic tooth movement. However, there have been no available approaches for the protection and repair of root resorption. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on root resorption during experimental tooth movement and the effects of LIPUS in the RANKL/OPG mechanism in osteoblasts and cementoblasts in vitro. Twenty four Wistar strain male rats of 12-week-old were used in this study. The upper first molars were subjected to experimental movement in the mesial direction for 1-3weeks. Through the experimental periods, the right upper first maxillary molar was exposed to LIPUS (LIPUS group) every day for 1, 2 or 3weeks. The nature of root resorption was observed and then quantified by histomorphometric analysis. In the 2weeks period, significantly greater amount of tooth movement was observed in the LIPUS group (p<0.05). In addition, LIPUS group showed less root resorption lacunae and lower number of odontoclasts. In the period of 3weeks, LIPUS group presented significantly shorter length of root resorption lacunae and smaller amount of root resorption area (p<0.01). The number of odontoclasts and osteoclasts was also significantly lower in the LIPUS group (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). However, no significant differences could be found regarding the amount of tooth movement. It is shown that LIPUS exposure significantly reduced the degree of root resorption during tooth movement without interrupting tooth movement. In vitro experiments showed that MC3T3-1 constitutively expressed higher levels of RANKL and RANTES mRNA comparing to OCCM-30. However, OPG mRNA expression was much higher in OCCM-30. LIPUS stimulation significantly increased the mRNA expression of RANKL in MC3T3-E1 at 4 (p<0.01) and 12h (p<0.05), although OPG mRNA expression was not affected by LIPUS. In contrast, the expression of RANKL and OPG mRNAs were both significantly increased by LIPUS in OCCM-30 at 12h (p<0.01). Moreover, LIPUS application suppressed the up-regulation of RANKL mRNA induced by compression force in OCCM-30, but no similar effect could be observed in MC3T3-E1. In conclusion, it is suggested that LIPUS exposure significantly reduces root resorption by the suppression of cementoclastogenesis by altering OPG/RANKL ratio during orthodontic tooth movement without interfering tooth movement. LIPUS may be an effective tool to prevent root resorption during tooth movement and is applicable to clinical use in near future.

IL-1β and compressive forces lead to a significant induction of RANKL-expression in primary human cementoblasts

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the response of primary human cementoblasts to conditions as they occur on the pressure side during orthodontic tooth movement.

METHODS

In our previous study, the cementoblasts were characterized using markers for osteoblastogenic differentiation and the cementoblast-specific marker CEMP-1. Initially, primary human cementoblasts were compressed for 1 h, 4 h, and 6 h (30 g/cm(2)). In the second experiment, the cementoblasts were stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1β for 24 h and for 96 h with 1 ng/ml and 10 ng/ml and subsequently compressed for 1 h and 6 h. Changes in mRNA expression for receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK), RANK ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RANK and RANKL were also examined by immunocytochemical staining at the protein level.

RESULTS

Compression (30 g/cm(2)) led to a significant increase in RANKL expression after 6 h. OPG expression in compressed cementoblasts was significantly reduced after 1 h. RANK remained unchanged during the course of the experiment. Stimulation with IL-1β induced RANKL and OPG expression. However, IL-1β-dependent induction of RANKL was more prominent than the induction of OPG, leading to a (significant) increase in the RANKL/OPG ratios. The expression of RANK remained unchanged after 24 h of stimulation with IL-1β and decreased significantly after 96 h. Compression of the prestimulated cells resulted in a further increase in RANKL expression significant after 6 h. OPG and RANK expression remained unchanged compared to the unstimulated sample. COX-2 increased significantly after both compression and stimulation with IL-1β. Combined stimulation and compression resulted in a significant further increase after 6 h compared to IL-1β stimulation alone.

CONCLUSION

Primary human cementoblasts in vitro express increased levels of RANKL, in particular during the combination of inflammation and compression. The increase in RANKL expression is not compensated by an increase in OPG expression. The induction of RANKL expression was associated with a significant increase in COX-2 expression. Since RANKL attracts osteoclasts, its increase might be associated with the progression of root resorption. The in vitro alterations in cementoblasts we observed may be indicators of cellular mechanisms that lead to the increased root resorption during orthodontic treatment.

Characterization of NODs and TLRs in innate immune response of human cementoblast cells

OBJECTIVES

Microbial Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domains (NODs), are essential for mammalian innate immune response. In this study, we examined the characterization of NODs and TLRs on innate immune responses in human cementoblast (HCEM) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The gene expression of NODs and TLRs was examined by RT-PCR. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) productions in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the degradation of IκB-α and Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in response to their agonist.

RESULTS

The levels of NODs and TLRs were apparently expressed in HCEM cells. Although a few gene levels were weak in intact cells, the stimulation by their agonists increased the gene expression of TLRs. NODs and TLRs led to the production of IL-6 or IL-8 and the degradation of IκB-α and MAPK activation in HCEM cells. Combination treatment of NOD1 or NOD2 agonists with TLRs agonists did not influence the production of IL-6 and IL-8 in HCEM cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that NODs and TLRs are functionally expressed in HCEM cells and can trigger innate immune responses. However, NOD1 and NOD2 may not be cooperated with TLRs to elicit an immune response in HCEM cells.