Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
Micro-dissection of Enamel Organ from Mandibular Incisor of Rats Exposed to Environmental Toxicants
Published on: March 29, 2018
Expression of MMP-8 and MMP-13 mRNAs in rat periodontium during tooth eruption
M Tsubota1, Y Sasano, I Takahashi
1Division of Periodontics and Endodontics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Sendai 980-8575, Japan.
Abstract:
The present study was designed to investigate mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) and MMP-13 in forming periodontium during tooth eruption in the rat. RT-PCR for the decalcified paraffin sections indicated expression of MMP-8 and MMP-13 in the periodontal tissues. In situ hydridization demonstrated expression of MMP-8 in osteoblasts, osteocytes, periodontal ligament cells, cementoblasts, and cementocytes along with collagen types I and III. In contrast, transcripts of MMP-13 were confined to a small population of osteoblasts and osteocytes in alveolar bone. The results suggested that MMP-8 may be involved in remodeling the periodontium during tooth eruption, and its expression may be coordinated with that of collagen types I and III, whereas the participation of MMP-13 may be rather limited.
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) is expressed in rat periodontium during tooth eruption, suggesting a role in tissue remodeling. MMP-13 expression was limited, indicating a minor role in this process.
Area of Science:
- Periodontal Biology
- Tooth Eruption Mechanisms
- Matrix Metalloproteinases
Background:
- Periodontal tissue development is crucial for tooth eruption.
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are key enzymes in extracellular matrix remodeling.
- Understanding MMP roles during tooth eruption is vital for regenerative dentistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mRNA expression of MMP-8 and MMP-13 in the developing rat periodontium during tooth eruption.
- To elucidate the specific cellular localization of MMP-8 and MMP-13 transcripts.
- To determine the potential involvement of MMP-8 and MMP-13 in periodontal remodeling.
Main Methods:
- Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) on decalcified paraffin sections.
- In situ hybridization to detect mRNA localization within periodontal tissues.
- Analysis of MMP-8 and MMP-13 expression patterns relative to collagen types I and III.
Main Results:
- MMP-8 mRNA was detected in osteoblasts, osteocytes, periodontal ligament cells, cementoblasts, and cementocytes.
- MMP-13 mRNA transcripts were primarily found in a limited subset of osteoblasts and osteocytes in alveolar bone.
- MMP-8 expression was observed alongside collagen types I and III.
Conclusions:
- MMP-8 likely plays a significant role in periodontal tissue remodeling during tooth eruption.
- The expression of MMP-8 appears coordinated with collagen types I and III deposition.
- MMP-13's contribution to periodontal remodeling during eruption seems minimal.
