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Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Basic and Translational Science Updates
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS-5035, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
Abstract:
In the late 1990s and the early 2000s, bisphosphonates had become the clinical pillar of excellence for treating metabolic bone disease, and thus their connection with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) caused significant concern. Over the past decade, progress has been made in understanding what is now referred to as medication-related ONJ (MRONJ), because of its connections to agents other than bisphosphonates, although in many respects the progress has been slow. This review highlights the key basic science and translational (animal) studies in the area of MRONJ and suggests areas of focus as the field moves into the next decade.
Insights
Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) emerged as a concern with bisphosphonates. This review covers basic science and animal studies on MRONJ, guiding future research directions.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pharmacology
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Bisphosphonates, crucial for metabolic bone disease, were linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) in the early 2000s.
- Medication-related ONJ (MRONJ) now encompasses agents beyond bisphosphonates, though understanding has progressed slowly.
- Significant concern arose from the association between bisphosphonates and ONJ, impacting clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review fundamental basic science research on MRONJ.
- To analyze translational (animal) studies investigating MRONJ.
- To identify key areas for future research in MRONJ.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of basic science studies.
- Analysis of translational research in animal models.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on MRONJ pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Highlights significant findings from basic science investigations into MRONJ.
- Summarizes outcomes from animal model studies relevant to MRONJ.
- Identifies gaps in current understanding and research.
Conclusions:
- Basic science and translational studies are crucial for advancing MRONJ knowledge.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate MRONJ mechanisms.
- The field requires focused investigation to address remaining challenges in MRONJ.
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