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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha are involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. A high between-subject variation in the level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA has been verified, which may be a result of genetic polymorphisms and/or the presence of periodontopathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola (called the red complex) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. In this study, we investigated the effect of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFA) -308G/A gene polymorphism and of periodontopathogens on the tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in the periodontal tissues of nonsmoking patients with chronic periodontitis (n = 127) and in control subjects (n = 177). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The TNFA -308G/A single nucleotide polymorphism was investigated using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, whereas the tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels and the periodontopathogen load were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found in the frequency of the TNFA -308 single nucleotide polymorphism in control and chronic periodontitis groups, in spite of the higher frequency of the A allele in the chronic periodontitis group. The concomitant analyses of genotypes and periodontopathogens demonstrated that TNFA -308 GA/AA genotypes and the red-complex periodontopathogens were independently associated with increased levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in periodontal tissues, and no additive effect was seen when both factors were present. P. gingivalis, T. forsythia and T. denticola counts were positively correlated with the level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha. TNFA -308 genotypes were not associated with the periodontopathogen detection odds or with the bacterial load. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that the TNFA -308 A allele and red-complex periodontopathogens are independently associated with increased levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in diseased tissues of nonsmoking chronic periodontitis patients and consequently are potentially involved in determining the disease outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a complex disorder, which results in several complications involving disturbance of mineral metabolism. Periodontal disease is an infectious disease that appears to be an important cause of systemic inflammation in CKD patients. Periodontal disease is characterized by clinical attachment loss (CAL) caused by alveolar bone resorption around teeth, which may lead to tooth loss. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a key regulator of osteoclastogenesis. Polymorphisms are the main source of genetic variation, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported as major modulators of disease susceptibility. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of a polymorphism located at position -223 in the untranslated region of the OPG gene, previously known as -950, with susceptibility to CKD and periodontal disease. Material and Methods: A sample of 224 subjects without and with CKD (in hemodialysis) was divided into groups with and without periodontal disease. The OPG polymorphism was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: No association was found between the studied OPG polymorphism and susceptibility to CKD or periodontal disease. Conclusion: It was concluded that polymorphism OPG-223 (C/T) was not associated with CKD and periodontal disease in a Brazilian population. Studies on other polymorphisms in this and other genes of the host response could help to clarify the involvement of bone metabolism mediators in the susceptibility to CKD and periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that mediates inflammatory tissue destruction. A G to C substitution at position -174 in the promoter of IL-6 gene reduces in vitro transcription of IL-6. This polymorphism has been associated with inflammatory diseases like chronic arthritis. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the IL-6-174 polymorphism and susceptibility to chronic periodontitis in Brazilians. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighty-four nonsmoking subjects over 25 years (mean age 42.4) were divided according to the severity level of periodontal disease: 36 healthy individuals (control group), 24 subjects with moderate and 24 with severe periodontitis. Genomic DNA was obtained from epithelial cells through a mouthwash with 3% glucose and scraping of oral mucosa. The samples were analyzed for IL-6-174 polymorphism using PCR-RFLP. The significance of the differences in the frequencies of the polymorphism in the control and groups with periodontitis was assessed by chi2 test (p<0.05). RESULTS: Differences were found between control and groups with periodontitis in the genotype (p=0.0036, OR=3.0) and in the allele (p=0.0838, OR=1.9) frequencies. CONCLUSION: We concluded that the IL-6-174 polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to chronic periodontitis in the population studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cytokines are key factors that mediate the inflammatory process during periodontal disease. Recent works have shown that the levels of cytokine expression are regulated by genetic polymorphisms, and that these variations can interfere with the progression of disease. The-590 (C-->T) polymorphism of the IL4 gene is associated with high levels of IgE in asthmatic families, and the frequency of the T allele was increased in asthmatic children. The concentration of IgE in gingival tissue was found to be elevated in patients with periodontitis. OBJECTIVE: In this study the relationship between the-590 (C-->T) polymorphism in the IL4 gene and different levels of chronic periodontal disease was investigated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells of 113 unrelated adult individuals with different levels of periodontitis. The PCR-RFLP technique was used to investigate the polymorphism in the promoter of IL4 gene. RESULTS: No significant differences in the allele and genotype frequencies of the polymorphism were found between control and groups with periodontal disease. CONCLUSION: : We conclude that the-590 (C-->T) polymorphism in the IL4 gene is not associated with the susceptibility to chronic periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: to assess the small-scale 3D printing feasibility and cost estimation of a device for controlled dynamization., Materials and Method: The two-part device previously developed by our research group was printed with a carbon fiber-reinforced nylon filament (Gen3 CarbonX™ PA6+CF, 3DXTECH Additive Manufacturing) by a professional 3D printer (FUNMAT HT, Intamsys). Electricity, material, and labor costs for production in a Brazilian city in the Santa Catarina state were calculated., Results: The devices for controlled dynamization were successfully printed in accordance with the planned design and dimensions. Six out of 38 printed devices presented defects in the bolt hole and were discarded. The average printing time per device was 1.9 h. The average electricity, material, and labor costs per printed device were respectively US$0.71, US$13.55, and US$3.04. The total production cost per device reaches approximately US$20 by adding the average cost of defective devices (15 %)., Conclusion: 3D printing of the controlled dynamization device is feasible and its cost seems affordable to most healthcare services, which could optimize the consolidation of diaphyseal fractures and reduce treatment time for patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no competing interests to declare., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The purpose of the study was to investigate the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2, respectively) and delayed tooth emergence (DTE). This cross-sectional study was composed of biological unrelated children of both sexes, age ranging from 11 to 13 years old. DTE was defined when the successor primary tooth was still present in the oral cavity after its exfoliation time or the absence of the permanent tooth emergence into the oral cavity. Children were diagnosed with DTE when they had at least one delayed permanent tooth, according to age of exfoliation of each tooth proposed by The American Dental Association. Genomic DNA from saliva was used to evaluate the SNPs in ESR1 (rs9340799 and rs2234693) and ESR2 (rs1256049 and rs4986938) using Real-Time PCR. Chi-square or Fisher exact tests and Logistic Regression adjusted by age and gender were performed. SNP-SNP interaction was accessed by multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) analysis also adjusted by gender and age. The established alpha of this study was 5%. Among 537 included children, 296 (55%) were in the "DTE" group and the 241 (45%) were in the "Control" group. Age and gender were not statistically different among the groups (p>0.05). Genotype distribution of the SNPs rs9340799, rs2234693, rs1256049 and rs4986938 were not associated with DTE (p> 0.05). The models elected by MDR were not statistically significant either. Conclusions: The studied SNPs in ESR1 and ESR2 were not associated with permanent DTE.

The absence or presence of root resorption on the root surface of a replanted tooth indicates an immune-inflammatory reaction. Since interleukin-6 (IL-6) is considered an inflammatory marker in bone resorption, this study aimed to investigate the association between clinical variables and polymorphisms in IL6, with the outcome of replanted teeth at 1-year follow-up. Altogether, 127 avulsed teeth that were replanted and had their root canals treated were selected for this study. Periapical radiographs were taken after replantation and after 1 year. Real-time PCR was used to genotype IL6 polymorphisms. Chi-square and 'Z' tests were performed to verify the association between genetic variables and the prognosis of replanted teeth (P < 0.05). An association was observed between the rs2069843 polymorphism of IL6 and the outcome of replanted teeth (P < 0.05). The rs2069843 polymorphism of IL6 may influence the outcome of avulsed and replanted teeth in the first year post-trauma., (© 2021 Australian Society of Endodontology Inc.)

Objective: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a multifactorial condition and the most common cause of orofacial pain, affecting mostly women, which points to a female hormone predilection. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the association between TMD and estrogen receptor alpha 1 expression in disks of patients with TMD and condyle fracture (CFx)., Study Design: Forty specimens (from 27 patients) included n = 8 CFx, n = 21 anterior disk displacement with reduction (ADDwR), and n = 11 anterior disk displacement without reduction (ADDwoR). Age, area, and intensity of immunostaining were statistically compared between CFx, ADDwR, and ADDwoR groups using analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis analysis (P < .05)., Results: No significant difference between CFx, ADDwR, and ADDwoR groups with respect to age and expression of estrogen receptor alpha 1 was observed on immunohistochemical examination., Conclusion: No association of estrogen receptor alpha 1 expression and age was found in the CFx, ADDwR, and ADDwoR groups., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) is a multifactorial condition that impairs human's health and quality of life. Its etiology is still a challenge due to its complex development and the great number of different conditions it comprises. One of the most common forms of TMD is anterior disc displacement without reduction (DDWoR) and other TMDs with distinct origins are condylar hyperplasia (CH) and mandibular dislocation (MD). Thus, the aim of this study is to identify the protein expression profile of synovial fluid and the temporomandibular joint disc of patients diagnosed with DDWoR, CH and MD. Synovial fluid and a fraction of the temporomandibular joint disc were collected from nine patients diagnosed with DDWoR ( n = 3), CH ( n = 4) and MD ( n = 2). Samples were subjected to label-free nLC-MS/MS for proteomic data extraction, and then bioinformatics analysis were conducted for protein identification and functional annotation. The three TMD conditions showed different protein expression profiles, and novel proteins were identified in both synovial fluid and disc sample. TMD is a complex condition and the identification of the proteins expressed in the three different types of TMD may contribute to a better comprehension of how each pathology develops and evolutes, benefitting the patient with a focus-target treatment.

Homeostasis between salivary calcium and phosphorus is important for maintaining oral health. The aim of this study was to evaluate if polymorphisms in ESR1 (Estrogen Receptor Alpha), ESR2 (Estrogen Receptor Beta) and miRNA17 (microRNA17) are associated with calcium and phosphorus levels in saliva. Saliva from 276 12-year-old children were collected by masticatory stimulation and calcium and phosphorus levels were determined by Mass Spectrometry. Genomic DNA was extracted from remaining saliva and genetic polymorphisms in ESR1 (rs12154178, rs1884051, rs9340799 and rs2234693), in ESR2 (rs4986938 and rs1256049) and in miRNA17 (rs4284505) were genotyped using TaqMan chemistry and a real-time PCR equipment. Statistical differences in genotype and allele distributions between 'low' and 'high' calcium and phosphorus levels were determined using chi-square or Fisher´s exact tests. The analysis was also adjusted by sex (alpha of 5%). ESR1 rs9340799 had the less common genotype associated with higher calcium levels (p=0.03). The less common allele of ESR1 rs1884051 was associated with lower phosphorus levels (p=0.005) and there was an excess of heterozygotes for miRNA17 rs4284505 among individuals with lower calcium levels (p=0.002), both adjusted by sex. This study provides evidence that genetic polymorphisms in ESR1 and miRNA17 are involved in determining salivary calcium and phosphorus levels.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs4284505 within the gene that codifies microRNA17 (miRNA17) and dental fluorosis (DF) in a group of children., Methods: Children living in a city with fluoridation of public water supplies were included. DF was assessed in erupted permanent teeth by Dean's modified index. The miR-SNP rs4284505 was selected in miRNA17 and genotyping was carried out by real-time PCR. Genotype and allelic distributions between DF and control, and between DF phenotypes (mild, moderate and severe) and control were analysed., Results: Among a total of 527 children enrolled for the study, 383 were DF free and 144 presented DF. In the dominant model analysis (AA + AG vs. GG) the miR-SNP rs4284505 was associated with moderate DF, with carriers of the GG genotype having an increased risk of more than two times for DF ( p  = 0.031; Odds Ratio = 2.26, Confidence Interval 95%= 1.04-4.73). Allelic distribution showed borderline statistical significance for moderate DF with the carriers of G allele having an increased risk for DF ( p  = .050; Odds Ratio = 1.75, Confidence Interval 95%= 1.00-3.12)., Conclusion: The miR-SNP rs4284505 in miRNA17 was associated with an increased risk of DF.

Objective: To investigate the association of genetic polymorphisms (tagSNPs type) of RANK/RANKL/OPG genes with the loss of orthodontic mini-implants (MIs)., Setting and Sample Population: One hundred and thirty-five patients of both sexes, with mean age of 48.7 ± 10 (20-76 years), were studied. The control group was composed of 104 patients, with no MI lost and functioning for at least 6 months and the case group, of 31 patients with at least one MI lost., Materials and Methods: Cells were obtained by mouthwash with 3% glucose solution for 1 minute and scraping the buccal mucosa with sterilized spatula. DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells with 10 M ammonium acetate and 1 mM EDTA. Genotyping was performed by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed (P < .05)., Results: No markers were associated with MI loss after Benjamini and Hochberg false discovery rate correction of Univariate tests. In the multivariate analysis, the variables that associated with MI loss were the number of MIs installed (P < .000) and the polymorphism rs8086340 in the RANK gene (P = .018)., Conclusion: A higher number of MIs installed (P < .000) and polymorphism rs8086340 in the RANK gene (P = .018) were associated with loss of orthodontic MIs after multivariate analysis., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: The aim of this pilot case-control study was to investigate the association of clinical variables and genetic polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) with dental implant loss., Material and Methods: This study was carried out with 244 individuals with mean age 51.90 ± 11.28 (81 cases and 163 controls matched by age, sex, and smoking habit). Also, the clusterization phenomenon was investigated stratifying the sample into two groups: (a) 34 patients with multiple losses (presenting two or more lost implants) and (b) 210 without multiple losses (up to one implant loss). Sociodemographic, clinical, and periodontal parameters were analyzed. The tagSNPs in the VDR gene were analyzed by real-time PCR. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed (p < .05)., Results: Edentulism, number of implants installed, and Gingival, Plaque, and Calculus Indexes were associated with implant loss in the univariate analysis. After the multivariate analysis, the allele G of rs3782905 in the recessive model, together with number of installed implants and Gingival Index, was associated with implant failure., Conclusion: It is suggested that the allele G of rs3782905 in the recessive model may be a new genetic risk marker for dental implant loss in patients who lost two or more dental implants. In addition, number of implants installed and Gingival Index were also associated. Replication is mandatory to confirm these findings, due to the modest sample size of this work., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was investigate the association between genetic polymorphisms in ESR1, ESR2, and ESRRB and dental fluorosis (DF) in a well-characterized sample of children from Curitiba, Brazil., Material and Methods: From a representative sample of 538 children, 12-year-old were evaluated. DF was assessed in erupted permanent teeth by the Dean's index modified. Fourteen polymorphisms were selected in intronic and intergenic regions of ESR1, ESR2, and ESRRB and genotyped in genomic DNA source from saliva using TaqMan chemistry and end-point analysis. Allele and genotype distributions between DF and DF free groups were analyzed using the Epi Info 7.2. Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests at a level of significance of 5% and odds ratios calculations with 95% confidence intervals were used to determine the statistical associations., Results: Among 538 children, 147 were DF and 391 were DF free. Genotype distribution for the polymorphism rs12154178 in ESR1 was different between the two groups (p = 0.037; OR = 0.91; CI = 0.67-1.22). The dominant model analysis (AA+AC vs. CC) demonstrated that CC is a protective factor for DF (p = 0.038; OR = 0.51, 0.27-0.97 95% CI). We did not find differences in frequency distributions in the other evaluated polymorphisms., Conclusion: This study provides evidence that ESR1 is associated with DF., Clinical Relevance: Dental fluorosis is an important condition that affects the mineralized tissues of the teeth. In severe cases, the treatment takes time and is extremely costly. This research provides evidences that there are genetic factors involved in dental fluorosis and will help professionals to plan more precise strategies to reduce dental fluorosis occurrence.

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical characteristics and IL4 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs2227284 and rs2243268) with orthodontic mini-implant (MI) failure. The sample included 135 subjects of both sexes, mean age 48.7±10years (range 20-76years): 104 in the control group (patients without any MI loss) and 31 in the study group (patients presenting ≥1 MI loss). Genotypes were determined by real-time PCR. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed (P<0.05). No association was found between the selected tag SNPs and MI loss. The C allele of the IL4 rs2243268 polymorphism in the recessive model was more frequent in patients who had fewer MIs installed (≤2 vs. >2; P=0.043, odds ratio 0.65, 95% confidence interval 0.58-0.74). On multivariate analysis, smoking habit was significantly associated with the group with multiple MIs installed (P=0.036), however the significance of the association with rs2243268 was not maintained. No association was found between the socio-demographic, smoking, or genetic factors studied and MI loss. This study supports the interaction between host and environmental factors and its influence on susceptibility to orthodontic MI failure., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical variables and polymorphisms in the RANKL, RANK, and OPG genes with external apical root resorption (EARR)., Methods: The sample was composed of 338 unrelated patients of both sexes, average age 14.9 years (range 8-21) with Class II Division 1 malocclusion, orthodontically treated. Periapical radiographs of the maxillary central incisor with the longer root (reference tooth) were taken before treatment and 6 months after starting treatment. DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells with the use of 10 mol/L ammonium acetate and 1 mmol/L EDTA. The analysis of 42 polymorphisms in the RANKL, RANK, and OPG genes was performed by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction. Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed to verify the association of clinical and genetic variables with EARR (P <0.05)., Results: The initial root length and patient age were associated with EARR. Considering the study of polymorphisms of RANKL, no significant association was found of genetic polymorphisms with EARR. For RANK polymorphisms, only rs12455775 was associated with EARR. Regarding OPG polymorphisms, an association of rs3102724, rs2875845, rs1032128, and rs3102728 with EARR was found. After multivariate analysis, the initial root length, rapid maxillary expansion, and rs3102724 of the OPG gene were associated with EARR., Conclusions: Longer roots of upper central incisors and rapid maxillary expansion, as well as allele A of the rs3102724 polymorphism of the OPG gene, were associated with EARR in the study population., (Copyright © 2019 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The purpose of this cohort study was to identify associations between combined oral and bone disease phenotypes and genes present in cell regulatory pathways. The studied pathways play important roles in cellular growth, proliferation, differentiation, and homeostasis. DNA samples extracted from whole saliva of 3,912 individuals were genotyped and these data analyzed according to dental caries experience, periapical lesions, periodontitis, osteoporosis, or temporomandibular joint discomfort. Samples were obtained from the Dental Registry and DNA Repository project at the University of Pittsburgh. Twenty-seven polymorphisms in eight genes related to mTOR or endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways were selected for genotyping. Allele frequencies and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were calculated. Analyses were performed comparing genotypes between affected and unaffected individuals for each phenotype, as well as for the associated phenotypes combined. For all analyses, we used the software PLINK with an alpha of 0.002. Borderline associations with multiple variants of several genes were found, suggesting that both pathways may be involved in the susceptibility to multiple conditions affecting the oral cavity and bones. When combining patients that had concomitant dental caries, periodontitis, and periapical pathology, several markers in RHEB showed statistically significant association. Multiple conditions affecting bone and teeth (i.e., dental caries, periodontitis, periapical lesion formation, and osteoporosis) appear to share similar underlying genetic etiological factors, which allow us to hypothesize that instead of individually, they should be studied in conjunction in human populations., (© 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: This study shows the relationship between host factors and environmental factors in the influence of susceptibility to loss of dental implants., Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical aspects and tag SNPs of the genes LTA, TNFA, and LTB with dental implant loss., Materials and Methods: The subjects consisted of 244 patients, divided into two groups: control group (C)-163 individuals who did not lose any implants, being in function for at least 6 months; and study group (S)-81 individuals who had lost at least one implant. DNA was collected from saliva, and the genotypes were determined by real time PCR. Univariate and multivariate analysis were employed p < .05., Results: After multivariate analysis, dental implant loss remained associated with the presence of teeth (p = .011), a larger amount of placed implants (p = .001), and allelle C of rs2009658 of the LTA gene (p = .006). For the other tag SNPs of these studied genes, there was no association between the groups C and S with dental implants loss., Conclusion: Presence of teeth, number of placed implants and allele C of rs2009658 of LTA gene were associated with implant loss., (© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Introduction: The vitamin D-receptor axis is involved in multiple physiological functions and altered states such as hypertension, mineral metabolism disorders, and inflammation. These disturbances are major risk factors for progression to end-stage kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. In addition, changes in internal systemic environment could be influencing the impact of survival in patients with kidney disease. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms on hemodialysis patients' survival., Material and Methods: A total of 122 hemodialysis patients and 120 healthy controls were compared for VDR gene polymorphism. Markers for full coverage in the VDR gene were selected and genotyped. The hemodialysis patients were followed until death event, which was considered the primary endpoint for the survival analysis., Results: Two tag SNPs (rs10875695 and rs11168293) showed significant differences between the hemodialysis and healthy patients. In survival analysis, the CC genotype for rs2248098, compared to the TT genotype, was associated with a worse mortality rate. After adjustments for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease, the genotype CC (rs2248098) was associated with a higher risk of mortality in a multivariable analysis., Conclusions: Polymorphisms specific to patients with kidney disease could be influencing different conditions associated with mortality. Thus, these genetic markers, rs2248098 for example, would act in a specific time in the history of kidney disease and would bring different results of patient survival outcomes.

Objective: MMP-13 performs digestion of collagen, which is a primary component of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articular disc. This study evaluated the expression of MMP-13 in patients with anterior disc displacement with (ADDwR) and without reduction (ADDwoR), and in the presence of TMJ osteoarthrosis., Methods: Thirty-nine human temporomandibular joint disc samples were collected and divided in two ways: ADDwR (21 samples), ADDwoR (10 samples), and a control group (8 samples); and with osteoarthrosis (10 samples) and without osteoarthrosis (29 samples). Immunostaining of the TMJ discs was statistically compared between the groups., Results: There was no statistically significant difference for the area of MMP-13 immunostaining between the control group, ADDwR, and ADDwoR, nor between groups with and without osteoarthrosis., Conclusion: This study suggests MMP-13 is not significantly involved in collagen degradation in human TMJ disc displacement or osteoarthrosis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether genetic polymorphisms in AMELX, AMBN, ENAM, TFIP11, and TUFT1 genes are associated with dental fluorosis (DF). A total of 1,017 children from 2 Brazilian cohorts were evaluated. These populations lived in cities with fluoridation of public water supplies. DF was assessed in erupted permanent teeth using the modified Dean index. The polymorphisms rs946252, rs12640848, rs4694075, rs5997096, and rs4970957 were analyzed by real-time PCR from genomic DNA. Associations between DF, genotype, and allele distribution were evaluated using the χ2 test, with an alpha of 5%. The polymorphisms rs4694075, rs5997096, and rs4970957 in AMBN, TFIP11, and TUFT1 were associated with DF (p < 0.05). In conclusion, enamel matrix genes are associated with DF., (© 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Aim: To investigate the association of clinical variables and polymorphisms (tag SNPs) in the interleukin 4 (IL4) gene, with the prognosis of avulsed and replanted teeth., Methodology: Ninety-four patients who suffered avulsion and had their teeth replanted and endodontically treated were included. Periapical radiographs were obtained soon after tooth replantation and after 1 year. For genotypic IL4 gene analysis, the DNA from oral mucosa cells was collected, and polymorphisms were investigated by real-time PCR. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to verify the association of clinical and genetic variables and the outcome of the replanted teeth (P < 0.05)., Results: After multivariate analysis, extra-alveolar time longer than 1 h was significantly associated with external root resorption. No significant association was observed between IL4 gene polymorphisms and root resorption., Conclusion: No association between root resorption and IL4 gene polymorphisms was observed. An extra-alveolar time of more than 1 h was associated with a susceptibility for external root resorption. Replanting the tooth in its socket immediately is the most important factor to maintain a healthy root surface., (© 2017 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: The absence or presence of root resorption on the surface of a replanted tooth indicates an immune-inflammatory reaction. Recent research even suggests the participation of host predominant immunologic profile on types of resorptions detected on the root surface. Because interleukin 4 (IL-4) is an important anti-inflammatory cytokine, this study aimed to investigate the association of clinical variables and polymorphisms in IL4 with types of resorption of replanted teeth after 1 year of follow-up., Methods: One hundred twenty-seven avulsed teeth that were replanted were selected. Periapical radiographs were taken after replantation and for 1 year to detect the types of root resorption. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to genotype IL4 polymorphisms. The χ 2 and Z tests were performed to verify the association of clinical and genetic variables with the outcomes of replanted teeth (P < .05)., Results: An association was observed of extra-alveolar time, storage medium, and development of the root (P < .05), but not of IL4 polymorphisms, with the outcomes of replanted teeth (P > .05)., Conclusions: Extraoral time, storage medium, and development of the root, but not IL4 polymorphisms, may influence the types of resorption of avulsed and replanted teeth in the first year after trauma., (Copyright © 2017 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The inflammatory process is a coordinated response that protects host after infection or trauma, involving several molecular reactions. Once the inflammation is closely linked to the process of destruction of the temporomandibular joint, this study aims to examine, by immunohistochemistry, the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), an important inflammatory marker, in temporomandibular articular discs of patients with anterior disc displacement with (ADDwR) and without reduction (ADDwoR) and its association with osteoarthrosis (OA). Thirty-eight (n = 38) articular discs were divided into two cutoffs: 1) analysis 1: 4 control (acute pathology), 17 ADDwR, 17 ADDwoR; and 2) analysis 2: without OA (n = 21) and with OA (n = 17). The area of immunostaining was compared statistically between groups (p < 0.05). In the disc samples, no significant differences were observed between the groups ADDwR and ADDwoR, and with and without OA, in respect to the expression of IL-6 by immunohistochemical examination. Future studies should be conducted with a larger sample size, which could clarify the association of the inflammatory mediator IL-6 with temporomandibular joint dysfunction., (Copyright © 2017 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background and Objective: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a powerful stimulator of osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. Production of IL-6 is modulated by polymorphisms, and higher levels of this cytokine are found locally in patients with chronic periodontitis. In this study we performed a modern approach - Complete physical mapping of the IL6 gene - to identify the polymorphisms associated with chronic periodontitis in a southern Brazilian population sample., Material and Methods: One-hundred and nine individuals of both genders (mean age: 41.5 ± 8.5 years) were divided into a study group (56 participants with periodontitis) and a control group (53 individuals without periodontitis). After collection and purification of DNA, nine tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs1524107, rs2069835, rs2069837, rs2069838, rs2069840, rs2069842, rs2069843, rs2069845 and rs2069849) covering the entire gene were selected according to the information available on the International HapMap Project website and evaluated using real-time PCR., Results: Differences in the distribution of the following parameters were statistically significant between study and control groups: number of teeth (p = 0.030); probing depth (p < 0.001); clinical attachment level (p < 0.001); gingival index (p < 0.001); plaque index (p = 0.003); calculus index (p < 0.001); and dental mobility (p < 0.001). It was found that marker rs2069837 (located in intron 2 of IL6) under G dominant was associated with protection against chronic periodontitis in a Brazilian population in the presence of clinical variables, such as visible plaque, dentist visit frequency and dental floss use, and was suggested for the first time as a marker of susceptibility to chronic periodontitis., Conclusion: Complete physical mapping of IL6 (using tag SNPs) was carried out for the first time, unveiling allele G of polymorphism rs2069837 (located in the second intron of IL6) as a suggestive marker of protection against chronic periodontitis in a Brazilian population., (© 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze MMP-1 transcript levels in periodontal tissues of rats that underwent orthodontic treatment using potassium diclofenac and dexamethasone at different stages of tooth movement., Setting and Sample Population: The sample comprised of ninety male Wistar rats., Material and Methods: A closed nickel-titanium coil spring was used to apply a force of 50 cN to move the maxillary right first molars mesially. One group received daily doses of 0.9% saline solution, the second group received daily doses of 5 mg/kg potassium diclofenac, and the third group received daily doses of 0.5 mg/kg dexamethasone. Tooth movement was observed on days 0, 1, 3, 7, and 14. MMP-1 transcript levels were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction and the results were compared between groups by three-way ANOVA, with a significance level of 0.05., Results: Transcript levels increased in groups that received the coil spring treatment on all days of the experiment. MMP-1 expression was found to be decreased in groups treated with potassium diclofenac and dexamethasone compared to that in the control group, on days 1, 3, 5, and 7., Conclusions: The application of orthodontic forces significantly increased MMP-1 transcript levels. The use of anti-inflammatory drugs may have an inhibitory effect on MMP-1 expression., (© 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: Investigate the association of clinical, cytological and genetic characteristics with benign migratory glossitis (BMG)., Study Design: Sample consisted of 175 patients, 44 with BMG and 131 control patients. Clinical examination and DMFT index were assessed. Cytological evaluation determined cell morphology and morphometry. Genetic evaluation was performed by analysing IL6 polymorphisms by real-time PCR. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed (p<0.05)., Results: There was a higher level of anxiety, DMFT score and a prevalence of fissured tongue in BMG group. A high mean nuclear/cytoplasmic area ratio was observed in patients with BMG. There was predominance of Papanicolaou class II I BMG group. IL6 allele G rs2069843 polymorphism was associated with BMG in the dominant model. In multivariate analysis, DMFT and anxiety scale remained associated with BMG., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Saliva components play a crucial role in the integrity of the dental enamel and in caries susceptibility. The saliva characteristics are controlled by many factors, including genetic factors. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between the genetic variations in genes expressed in enamel development with calcium and phosphorus levels in saliva. We collected 276 unrelated 12-year-old children from private and public schools. Saliva was collected for DNA extraction from oral cells and for measurement of calcium and phosphorus. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry determined calcium and phosphorus levels in whole saliva. Fifteen genetic variations in 9 genes were analyzed. The genotype was determined by real-time polymerase chain reactions. Data were analyzed using Plink with an alpha of 5%. Genetic variations in AMELX, AMNB and ESRRB were associated with the calcium level in saliva (p < 0.05). A borderline association was observed in ENAM allele distribution shown with phosphate level in saliva (p = 0.049). In conclusion, our results are the first to report that genetic variations contribute to calcium and phosphorus levels in saliva., (© 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Aims: To analyze and compare the electromyographic activity of the temporal (anterior portion) and masseter muscles among Karate-Dō athletes before and after training, with and without the use of a mouthguard., Methods: Twenty athletes (14 males and 6 females) with a mean age of 23.7 ± 7.5 years participated. They had surface electromyography recordings taken of their bilateral temporal and masseter muscles before and after training under the following conditions: no mouthguard, with a ready-made mouthguard, and with a custom-made mouthguard. Activity was examined at mandibular rest, while clenching, and at maximum voluntary contraction. The data were normalized using the mean maximum voluntary contraction., Results: The right (p = 0.005) and left (p = 0.015) temporal muscles showed significantly lower electromyographic activity with a custom-made mouthguard compared with no mouthguard after training while clenching. The electromyographic activity of the temporal and masseter muscles did not show significant differences when tested at mandibular rest and while clenching before or after training with a custom-made mouthguard (p > 0.05)., Conclusion: The use of a custom-made mouthguard preserved participants' electromyographic profiles before and after training; thus, they allow for stable muscle activity during the training of Karate-Dō athletes., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between psychological, hormonal, and genetic factors with the development of burning mouth syndrome (BMS) and secondary oral burning (SOB) in order to provide a better characterization and classification of these conditions., Design: Cross sectional study., Setting: Patients with complaints of mouth burning registered at the Oral Diagnostic Service of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte between 2000 and 2013., Subjects: The sample consisted of 163 subjects divided into a group of patients with BMS (n = 64) and a group of subjects with SOB (n = 99)., Methods: The following variables were analyzed: passive and stimulated saliva flow, stress levels and phase, depression, anxiety, serum cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels, and the presence of polymorphisms in the interleukin 6 (IL-6) gene., Results: The results showed significant differences in the presence of xerostomia (p = 0.01), hyposalivation at rest (p < 0.001) and symptoms of depression (p = 0.033) between the two groups, which were more prevalent in the BMS group. DHEA levels were lower in the BMS group (p = 0.003) and were sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of this condition. Genetic analysis revealed no significant association between the polymorphisms analyzed and the development of BMS., Conclusion: These results suggest a possible role of depression, as well as of reduced DHEA levels, as associated factors for development of BMS., (© 2016 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Mini-implants (MIs) are used increasingly for orthodontic anchorage and their success may require some osseointegration, which is affected by the underlying host immune-inflammatory response. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a cytokine expressed during the host response after a trauma or infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical characteristics and IL6 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (which capture the information of the whole gene in terms of genetic variability) with the loss of MIs for orthodontic anchorage. A total of 487 patients were treated with orthodontic MIs between 2004 and 2010. After the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, the sample comprised 104 patients with one or more MIs that had been in function for at least 6 months with no loss, and 31 patients who had lost one or more MIs. Allele A of rs2069843 and allele T of rs2069849 were suggestively associated with the loss of MIs for orthodontic anchorage and were in complete linkage disequilibrium, which means that one of them is sufficient to capture the same information. The location of installation (mandible) and the number of MIs installed per patient were also associated with the loss of MIs., (Copyright © 2015 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Dental implants have been widely used to replace missing teeth, accomplishing aesthetics and function. Due to its large use worldwide, the small percentage of implant loss becomes significant in number of cases. Lactotransferrin (LTF) is a pleiotropic protein, expressed in various body tissues and fluids, which modulates the host immune-inflammatory response and bone metabolism, and might be involved in dental implant osseointegration. Recently, a few studies have been investigating genetic aspects underlying dental implant failure., Purpose: This case-control study aimed to investigate the association of genetic markers (tag SNPs) in LTF gene and clinical parameters with dental implant loss., Material and Methods: 278 patients, both sexes, mean age 51 years old, divided into 184 without and 94 with implant loss, were genotyped for sixteen tag SNPs, representative of the whole LTF gene. Also, clinical oral and systemic parameters were analyzed. Univariate and Multivariate Logistic Regression model were used to analyze the results (p < .05)., Results: No association was found between the tag SNPs and implant loss in the study population. Clinical association was found with medical treatment, hormonal reposition, edentulism, number of placed implants, plaque, calculus, and mobility., Conclusion: Clinical variables, but not LTF gene polymorphisms, were associated with implant loss., (© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Peri-implantitis is a chronic inflammation, resulting in loss of supporting bone around implants. Chronic periodontitis is a risk indicator for implant failure. Both diseases have a common etiology regarding inflammatory destructive response. BRINP3 gene is associated with aggressive periodontitis. However, is still unclear if chronic periodontitis and peri-implantitis have the same genetic background. The aim of this work was to investigate the association between BRINP3 genetic variation (rs1342913 and rs1935881) and expression and susceptibility to both diseases., Methods: Periodontal and peri-implant examinations were performed in 215 subjects, divided into: healthy (without chronic periodontitis and peri-implantitis, n = 93); diseased (with chronic periodontitis and peri-implantitis, n = 52); chronic periodontitis only (n = 36), and peri-implantitis only (n = 34). A replication sample of 92 subjects who lost implants and 185 subjects successfully treated with implants were tested. DNA was extracted from buccal cells. Two genetic markers of BRINP3 (rs1342913 and rs1935881) were genotyped using TaqMan chemistry. Chi-square (p < 0.05) compared genotype and allele frequency between groups. A subset of subjects (n = 31) had gingival biopsies harvested. The BRINP3 mRNA levels were studied by CT method (2(ΔΔCT)). Mann-Whitney test correlated the levels of BRINP3 in each group (p < 0.05)., Results: Statistically significant association between BRINP3 rs1342913 and peri-implantitis was found in both studied groups (p = 0.04). The levels of BRINP3 mRNA were significantly higher in diseased subjects compared to healthy individuals (p = 0.01)., Conclusion: This study provides evidence that the BRINP3 polymorphic variant rs1342913 and low level of BRINP3 expression are associated with peri-implantitis, independently from the presence of chronic periodontitis.

Purpose: Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are tissue-remodeling enzymes that function during the remodeling process, such as in immune-inflammatory diseases. Metalloprotease-2 (MMP-2) and metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) are gelatinases that degrade several types of extracellular matrix collagen. It is hypothesized that in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression levels may be elevated. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the association of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression with temporomandibular joint dysfunction using an immunohistochemical approach to evaluate the joint disk., Material and Methods: A total of 45 human temporomandibular joint samples were collected, with 36 samples in the test group (patients with anterior disk displacement with reduction (n = 29) and without reduction (n = 7)) and nine samples in the control group. The immunostaining of the TMJ disks was statistically compared between the groups (P < 0.05)., Results: There was a statistically significant difference for the area of MMP-2 immunostaining between the control group and the displacement disks with reduction group (ADDwR) (P = 0.048) and between the groups with disk displacement and without reduction (ADDwoR) (P = 0.029). The expression of MMP-2 was significantly elevated in the ADDwoR group., Conclusion: No statistically significant difference was found between the variable area of MMP-9 expression in the disk with and without disk displacement, as determined by immunohistochemical analysis. However, there was an elevation of MMP-2 expression in the disks of patients with displacement and without reduction (more severe alteration)., (© 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Dental caries is a common multifactorial disease, resulting from the interaction of biofilm, cariogenic diet and host response over time. Lactotransferrin (LTF) is a main salivary glycoprotein, which modulates the host immune-inflammatory and antibacterial response. Although a genetic component for caries outcome has been identified, little is known over the genetic aspects underlying its susceptibility. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between LTF polymorphisms and caries susceptibility. Six hundred seventy seven 12-year-old students were selected: 346 with (DMFT ≥ 1) and 331 without caries experience (DMFT = 0). Also, individuals concentrating higher levels of disease (polarization group, DMFT ≥ 2, n = 253) were tested against those with DMFT ≤ 1 (n = 424). Along with clinical parameters, three representative LTF tag SNPs (rs6441989, rs2073495, rs11716497) were genotyped and the results were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses. Allele A for tag SNP rs6441989 was found to be significantly less frequent in the polarization group, conferring a protective effect against caries experience [AA + AG × GG (OR: 0.710, 95% CI: 0.514-0.980, p = 0.045)], and remained significantly associated with caries protection in the presence of gingivitis (p = 0.020) and plaque (p = 0.035). These results might contribute to the understanding of the genetic control of caries susceptibility in humans., (© 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: DACT genes regulates Wnt as well TGF-β pathway, and were already associated with hepatocellular and lung cancer. Alterations on Wnt/β-catenin were associated with head and neck cancer through β-catenin cytoplasmatic accumulation., Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate DACT1 and DACT2 expression and methylation on oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC)., Methods: 47 samples of salivary rinse and tissue were collected from 29 OSCC and 18 control patients. qMSP and RT-PCR reactions were performed in order to detect hypermethylation and expression of DACT1 and DACT2 genes. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate these genes as possible biomarkers for OSCC., Results: As expected man over 60 years old with tobacco and alcohol consumption history were associated with OSCC. There was no statistical difference between groups concerning DACT1 and DACT2 either in promoter hypermethylation or transcript levels. Age was associated with DACT2 promoter hypermethylation, especially over 56 years old., Conclusion: Patients older than 56 years old were about 5 times more likely to have DACT2 promoter hypermethylation. These findings could partially explain why older subjects are more prone to carcinogenesis. Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays an important role in carcinogenesis, and the study of their regulators may help understand malignant transformation.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between interleukin 4 (IL4) polymorphisms/haplotypes and dental implant loss., Materials and Methods: Two hundred and seventy eight (n = 278) unrelated patients were divided into 2 groups: (1) control group (C) composed of 186 individuals presenting at least 1 osseointegrated implant and (2) study group (S) composed of 94 individuals presenting at least 1 implant loss. After DNA collection, IL4 polymorphisms were investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism and for the variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) only by PCR., Results: No association between alleles/genotypes of -590 (C/T) (P = 0.9704/P = 0.5992) and VNTR (P = 0.7155/P = 0.8789) polymorphisms and implant loss were found between the groups. Regarding +33 (C/T) polymorphism, no difference was found in genotype frequency (P = 0.1288), but the C allele was associated with implant loss (P = 0.0236, odds ratio = 1.61, 95% confidence interval = 1.1-2.4). Haplotype analysis showed no statistical differences between the groups., Conclusion: The C allele of the +33 (C/T) polymorphism in the IL4 gene was associated with susceptibility to dental implant loss in Brazilians in the studied population.

Background: Chronic periodontitis (CP) is a continuous, reversible source of inflammation with a potential impact on mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study investigates the impact of oral health indicators, CP, and its treatment on survival rates in a group of patients undergoing HD., Methods: Clinically stable patients undergoing HD were referred for a dental examination. All patients were prospectively followed in the dialysis clinic, and all-cause mortality was recorded. Three groups of patients were analyzed: those who received CP treatment, those who did not, and patients without CP as a control group., Results: A total of 122 patients (79 males and 43 females, aged 23 to 77 years; mean age: 50 years; range: 23 to 77 years) were enrolled. Forty percent reported having rarely been evaluated by a dentist, and 59% had CP. There were 34 fatal events during a mean follow-up time of 64.1 ± 11.2 months. Oral factors associated with death in the univariate analysis were decreased frequency of dental visits; non-use of dental floss; increased decayed, missing, and filled teeth index; presence of CP; and absence of CP treatment. Patients with CP had a higher risk of death from all causes compared with patients without CP in the univariate analysis for untreated patients (hazard ratio 2.65 [95% confidence interval 1.06 to 6.59]; P = 0.036) and to a lesser extent for treated patients (2.36 [1.01 to 5.59]; P = 0.047). These significant differences were not maintained after adjustments for confounders in the multivariate model., Conclusions: These results suggest that poor oral health, including CP, is a common finding in patients undergoing HD. The results of this study call for intervention trials to test the hypothesis that treatment of CP improves survival in maintenance of patients undergoing HD.

Background: Apoptosis is a programme of cell death which does not induce an inflammatory response. Recent previous research has suggested a correlation between temporomandibular internal derangement and apoptosis. Fas ligand (FasL) is an apoptosis-inducing factor, known to trigger apoptosis through distinct signal pathways. This study aims to examine, by immunohistochemistry, the expression of FasL in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articular discs of patients with anterior disc displacement with reduction (ADDwR) and without reduction (ADDwoR) in patients with and without osteoarthrosis (OA)., Methods: Forty-two (n = 42) TMJ articular discs were divided into two cut-offs: (i) 8 control, 17 ADDwR, 17 ADDwoR, and (ii) without OA (n = 25) and with OA (n = 17). The area of immunostaining was compared statistically between groups (P < 0.05)., Results: Statistically significant differences were found in the expression of FasL in TMJ discs between the three groups (P = 0.001). ADDwR presented significant higher FasL expression when compared with ADDwoR (P < 0.001). Significant higher FasL expression was observed in the group without OA (P = 0.001). All patients without OA presented ADDwR, while all the patients with OA presented ADDwoR., Conclusion: A higher area of in situ immunostaining of FasL was found in temporomandibular discs with reduction, which is the less severe condition. Moreover, a reduced expression of FasL in the discs of patients with osteoarthrosis was found, suggesting that some aspects of apoptosis might underlie the progression of TMJ disorders., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Caries is the most common chronic, multifactorial disease in the world today; and little is still known about the genetic factors influencing susceptibility. Our previous genome-wide linkage scan has identified five loci related to caries susceptibility: 5q13.3, 13q31.1, 14q11.2, 14q 24.3, and Xq27. In the present study, we fine mapped the 14q11.2 locus to identify genetic contributors to caries susceptibility. Four hundred seventy-seven subjects from 72 pedigrees with similar cultural and behavioral habits and limited access to dental care living in the Philippines were studied. An additional 387 DNA samples from unrelated individuals were used to determine allele frequencies. For replication purposes, a total of 1,446 independent subjects from four different populations were analyzed based on their caries experience (low versus high). Forty-eight markers in 14q11.2 were genotyped using TaqMan chemistry. Transmission disequilibrium test was used to detect over transmission of alleles in the Filipino families, and Chi-square, Fisher's exact and logistic regression were used to test for association between low caries experience and variant alleles in the replication data sets. We finally assessed the mRNA expression of TRAV4 in the saliva of 143 study subjects. In the Filipino families, statistically significant associations were found between low caries experience and markers in TRAV4. We were able to replicate these results in the populations studied that were characteristically from underserved areas. Direct sequencing of 22 subjects carrying the associated alleles detects one missense mutation (Y30R) that is predicted to be probably damaging. Finally, we observed higher expression in children and teenagers with low caries experience, correlating with specific alleles in TRAV4. Our results suggest that TRAV4 may have a role in protecting against caries.

Caries is a multifactorial disease and little is still known about the host genetic factors influencing susceptibility. Our previous genome-wide linkage scan has identified the interval 5q12.1-5q13.3 as linked to low caries susceptibility in Filipino families. Here we fine-mapped this region in order to identify genetic contributors to caries susceptibility. Four hundred and seventy-seven subjects from 72 pedigrees with similar cultural and behavioral habits and limited access to dental care living in the Philippines were studied. DMFT scores and genotype data of 75 single-nucleotide polymorphisms were evaluated in the Filipino families with the Family-Based Association Test. For replication purposes, a total 1,467 independent subjects from five different populations were analyzed in a case-control format. In the Filipino cohort, statistically significant and borderline associations were found between low caries experience and four genes spanning 13 million base pairs (PART1, ZSWIM6, CCNB1, and BTF3). We were able to replicate these results in some of the populations studied. We detected PART1 and BTF3 expression in whole saliva, and the expression of BTF3 was associated with caries experience. Our results suggest BTF3 may have a functional role in protecting against caries., (Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Objective: Dental implants consist in the treatment of choice to replace tooth loss. The knowledge that implant loss tends to cluster in subsets of individuals may indicate that host immuneinflammatory response is influenced by genetic factors. In fact, genetic polymorphisms influence the osseointegration process. The objective of this study was investigate the possible relationship between C-799T polymorphism in matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8) gene and early implant failure in nonsmoker patients., Methods and Materials: Subjects were divided into two groups: control group (100 patients with one or more healthy implants) and test group (80 patients that had suffered one or more early implant failures). Genomic DNA from oral mucosa was amplified by PCR and analyzed by restriction endonucleases. The significance of the differences in observed frequencies of polymorphisms was assessed by Chi-square., Results: Statistical analysis shows that in the MMP-8 gene, the T allele in 76.25% in the test group and the T/T genotype, 63.75% in the same group, may predispose to early loss of implants osseointegrated., Conclusion: These results suggest that polymorphism in the promoter region of MMP-8 gene is associated with early implant failure. This polymorphism can be a genetic marker to risk of implant loss., Clinical Relevance: The determination of this genetic pattern in osseointegration would enable the identification of individuals at higher risk to loss implant. Thus, genetic markers will be identified, contributing to an appropriate preoperative selection and preparation of strategies for prevention and therapy individualized to modulate the genetic markers and increase the success rate of treatments.

Oral lesions that manifest as ulcer lesions are quite common and can cause discomfort to the patient. Searching for drugs to accelerate the healing of these lesions is nonstop process. Bixin is a molecule found in annatto (urucum) seeds and is considered a viable therapeutic option to treat such lesions due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and healing properties. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the bixin solution in the ulcer healing process in the oral mucosa of rats. Ulcers were induced with punches of 0.5 cm in the middle of the dorsum of the tongue of 64 Wistar rats. The animals were randomly divided into 8 groups, in which 4 groups were treated with saline solution, while the other 4 were treated with the bixin solution. The animals were sacrificed in the periods 2, 7, 14, and 21 days after the beginning of the treatment. The species were histologically processed and stained with hematoxylin/eosin and picrosirius. Fibroblasts, reepithelialization, and wound contraction could be observed, as could the quantification of neutrophils, macrophages, plasma cells, lymphocytes, and mature and immature collagen. On the seventh day, the experimental group, when compared to the control group, presented a higher proliferation of fibroblasts, more advanced reepithelialization, and a higher contraction in the wounds. A reduction in the average number of neutrophils in the experimental group, when compared to the control group, could be observed in all periods (p=0.000). Up to two days, the total collagen area was higher (p=0.044) in the experimental group (4139.60±3047.51t han in the control group (1564.81±918.47). The deposition of mature collagen, on the 14(th) day, was higher (p=0.048) in the experimental group (5802.40±3578.18) than in the control group (1737.26±1439.97). The results found in the present study indicate that the bixin solution inhibits the acute inflammatory response with a minor average number of neutrophils and accelerates reepithelialization, wound contraction and collagen maturation, thus illustrating that this solution does in fact represent an important adjuvant in the treatment of ulcers.

Unlabelled: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and periodontitis (PD) are complex inflammatory disturbances, influenced by genetic factors. Interleukin (IL)-1 genes code for inflammatory mediators involved in the physiopathogenesis of both diseases. Functional polymorphisms in IL1 genes modulate cytokine levels and have been associated with susceptibility to immune-inflammatory conditions., Objectives: The aim of this study was investigate the association of functional IL1 gene polymorphisms and transcript levels with susceptibility to CKD and PD., Design: The sample consisted of 246 individuals, mean age 44.8 years, divided into: group 1 (64 patients without CKD and without PD), group 2 (58 without CKD and with PD), group 3 (52 with CKD and without PD) and group 4 (72 with CKD and with PD). DNA was obtained from cells of oral mucosa and polymorphisms IL1AC-889T, IL1BC-511T, IL1BC+3954T and IL1RN (intron 2) were analyzed by PCR-RFLP. Transcript levels from gingival tissues were analyzed by real-time PCR., Results: IL1RN(*)1 allele was associated with almost 4-fold increased risk for CKD (OR 3.92 95% CI=1.6-9.4, p=0.002). IL1RN(*)2 allele was associated with 3-fold increased risk for PD in CKD patients (OR 3.08 95% CI=1.2-7.9, p=0.019). Allele T for polymorphism IL1B+3954 was associated with CKD in PD patients (OR 2.28 95% CI=1.1-4.7, p=0.019). Significantly increased levels of transcripts of IL1A, IL1B and IL1RN genes were found in PD patients., Conclusions: It was observed an evidence for association of IL1B and IL1RN alleles with susceptibility to CKD and PD. Higher levels of IL1 gene transcripts were found in PD patients., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Vitamin D is responsible for the regulation of certain genes at the transcription level, via interaction with the vitamin D receptor, and influences host immune responses and aspects of bone development, growth, and homeostasis. Our aim was to investigate the association of TaqI vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism with external apical root resorption during orthodontic treatment., Methods: Our subjects were 377 patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion, divided into 3 groups: (1) 160 with external apical root resorption ≤1.43 mm, (2) 179 with external apical root resorption >1.43 mm), and (3) 38 untreated subjects. External apical root resorption of the maxillary incisors was evaluated on periapical radiographs taken before and after 6 months of treatment. After DNA collection and purification, vitamin D receptor TaqI polymorphism analysis was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to verify the association of clinical and genetic variables with external apical root resorption (P <0.05)., Results: There was a higher proportion of external apical root resorption in orthodontically treated patients compared with the untreated subjects. In patients orthodontically treated, age higher than 14 years old, initial size of the maxillary incisor root superior to 30 mm, and premolar extraction were associated with increased external apical root resorption. Genotypes containing the C allele were weakly associated with protection against external apical root resorption (CC + CT × TT [odds ratio, 0.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.07-1.23; P = 0.091]) when treated orthodontic patients were compared to untreated individuals., Conclusions: Clinical factors and vitamin D receptor TaqI polymorphism were associated with external apical root resorption in orthodontic patients., (Copyright © 2012 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)