Differential expression of immunologic proteins in gingiva after socket preservation in mini pigs

During healing following tooth extraction, inflammation and the immune response within the extraction socket are related to bone resorption. Objective : We sought to identify how the alloplastic material used for socket preservation affects the immune responses and osteoclastic activity within extraction sockets. Material and Methods : Using a porcine model, we extracted teeth and grafted biphasic calcium phosphate into the extraction sockets. We then performed a peptide analysis with samples of gingival tissue from adjacent to the sockets and compared the extraction only (EO) and extraction with socket preservation (SP) groups. We also used real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to evaluate the expression level of immunoglobulins, chemokines and other factors related to osteoclastogenesis. Differences between the groups were analyzed for statistical significance using paired t tests. Results : Levels of IgM, IgG and IGL expression were higher in the EO group than in the SP group 1 week post-extraction, as were the levels of CCL3, CCL5, CXCL2, IFN-γ and TNF-α expression (p<0.05). In addition, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) was also significantly upregulated in the EO group (p<0.05), as were IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 (p<0.05). Conclusions : These results suggest that the beneficial effect of socket preservation can be explained by suppression of immune responses and inflammation

The role of dental implants in the management of dento-alveolar trauma part 1

Patients who suffer dento-alveolar trauma present a unique challenge for the dentist. There are numerous options to consider when attempting to restore the dentition. This article reviews the role of dental implants and how thorough planning and execution of such treatment could result in an optimal outcome. Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of the role of dental implants and factors imperative for a successful treatment outcome will assist the clinician in achieving optimal restorative results. </jats:p

The immunology of asthma

Asthma is a common disease that affects 300 million people worldwide. Given the large number of eosinophils in the airways of people with mild asthma, and verified by data from murine models, asthma was long considered the hallmark T helper type 2 (T(H)2) disease of the airways. It is now known that some asthmatic inflammation is neutrophilic, controlled by the T(H)17 subset of helper T cells, and that some eosinophilic inflammation is controlled by type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2 cells) acting together with basophils. Here we discuss results from in-depth molecular studies of mouse models in light of the results from the first clinical trials targeting key cytokines in humans and describe the extraordinary heterogeneity of asthma