Expression of epidermal growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptor in rat periodontal tissues during orthodontic tooth movement.
OBJECTIVE
To detect the expression and distribution of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in periodontal tissues, and analyze the role of EGF in orthodontic tooth movement.


METHODS
According to Kings methods, 40 g mesial force was applied to pull the left maxillary first molar in the rat. Using immunohistochemical method (HI-SABC method) to localize and examine the expression of EGF and EGFR in decalcified alveodental connective tissues at 24 hours and 168 hours of tooth movement.


RESULTS
EGF and EGFR were stained at some of periodontal ligament of furcation and radical regions in control group. These expressions of EGF and EGFR increased in periodontal tissues (P < 0.01), with the expressions at 168 hours higher than those at 24 hours (P < 0.01). And levels of EGF and EGFR at tension side were higher than those at pressure side at the same time (P < 0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
Epidermal growth factor participated in the tissues remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement and especially played a more important role in orthodontic bone formation.
Gao
Qingping
Q
Department of Orthodontics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
Zhang
Suyin
S
Jian
Xinchun
X
Zeng
Qingfu
Q
Ren
Lifeng
L
D000818:Animals; D066255:EGF Family of Proteins; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D008963:Molar; D010513:Periodontal Ligament / Q000378:metabolism; D010519:Periodontium / Q000378:metabolism; D051381:Rats; D014087:Tooth Movement Techniques
D066255:EGF Family of Proteins; D066246:ErbB Receptors