[Biological approaches to modification of craniofacial sutures]

The new bone deposition along the craniofacial sutures contributes to the overall growth of the craniofacial complex. The osteogenesis in suture is also regulated by the surrounding mechanical stress, which is the basis that orthodontic or orthopedic forces could therapeutically correct craniofacial growth abnormalities. Applying different kinds of mechanical forces, such as stretching/compression force, light/heavy force, continuous/intermittent force, could modulate the process of new bone formation in suture, by regulating the expression of a contain of growth factors. Recent researches indicated that additional biological manipulation, like physical stimulation and local administration of growth factors, could further assist the growth modification of suture upon mechanical forces. Understanding the tissue and molecular events of bone regeneration in suture upon different biological approaches could have important implications for the clinical management of craniofacial development and growth.