immunolocalization of FGF-2 and VEGF in rat periodontal ligament tissue during experimental tooth movement

by Freitas Lima, Milene de

Orthodontics, an odontological speciality, uses inflammatory events in order to solve functional and esthetical alterations. Changes in bone metabolism and remodeling, occurring during teeth movement by orthodontical treatment, are regulated by several growth factors. Teeth under this type of treatment can not move unless necrotic hyalin areas are removed. In order for this to occur neovascularization is necessary. As angiogenesis development in orthodontic movement is not well known, in this work two angiogenic cytokines - VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) and basic FGF (basic Fibroblast Growth Factor) ? expression by periodontal cells are studied. An orthodontic strength of 50g was applied on the first molar of 18 male rats and the counter-side first molar used as control. VEGF and basic FGF expression were studied, using immunohistochemistry, in samples tissue collected on 3rd, 7th and 14th days after the 50g strength were applied. Histological and morfometric analysis showed a higher expression of both VEGF and basic FGF in the experiment side than in control side (P<0,05) on the day evaluated. Statistical significant differences between tension and pressing areas were also found. The results suggest that these two cytokines have an important role on changes that occur in periodontal tissue during orthodontic movement