Laboratory animal models in periodontology

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Comparative Pathology
• Animal Models in Research

Background:

• Objective evaluation of human periodontal disease pathogenesis and treatments requires suitable animal models.
• Model selection depends on the similarity of the animal's periodontium and disease characteristics to humans.
• Existing models like dogs and nonhuman primates are used for studying periodontal disease, implants, and guided tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the diversity of animal models used in periodontal disease research.
• To highlight the importance of species-specific variables in model selection.
• To review the application of various animal models in studying microbiological, immunological, and clinical aspects of periodontal disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of commonly used animal models for periodontal disease research.
• Comparison of species-specific characteristics (diet, lifespan, genetics, etc.) influencing model suitability.
• Analysis of clinical and histopathological features across different animal models.

Main Results:

• Dogs and nonhuman primates are frequently used for studying periodontal disease pathogenesis and treatment modalities.
• Rodent models (rats, hamsters) are less similar to human periodontal disease but suitable for caries and calculus research.
• Ferrets are emerging as a promising model for investigating periodontal disease and calculus formation.

Conclusions:

• The choice of animal model significantly impacts the study of periodontal disease, requiring careful consideration of species-specific traits.
• Understanding the diversity in animal models is essential for advancing research in periodontal disease prevention and treatment.
• Continued exploration of novel models like ferrets may enhance our understanding of human periodontal disease.