Maresin 1 Resolves Inflammation and Aids Bone Healing in Periapical Lesions

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Immunology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Chronic apical periodontitis (CAP) is an inflammatory condition causing bone loss due to root canal infections.
• Current treatments for CAP often lack efficacy in promoting complete tissue repair and immune modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of maresin 1 (MaR1), a specialized proresolving mediator, in resolving inflammation and promoting bone healing in a mouse model of CAP.
• To evaluate the impact of MaR1 on inflammatory cell infiltration, bone regeneration, and microbial diversity, including key pathogens like Enterococcus faecalis.

Main Methods:

• A CAP mouse model was established via pulp exposure.
• Intracanal administration of MaR1 or vehicle was performed.
• Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), histological analysis, and next-generation sequencing were used to assess bone changes, inflammation, and microbial profiles.

Main Results:

• MaR1 treatment significantly reduced lesion size and inflammatory cell infiltration compared to the vehicle group (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.05, respectively).
• The bone volume/total volume ratio was significantly higher in the MaR1 group, indicating preserved bone mass (P < 0.05).
• MaR1 also demonstrated a reduction in Enterococcus faecalis, a prevalent pathogen in persistent root canal infections.

Conclusions:

• Maresin 1 (MaR1) shows significant promise as a therapeutic agent for chronic apical periodontitis.
• MaR1 facilitates the resolution of inflammation, promotes bone preservation and healing, and reduces key bacterial pathogens.
• The findings suggest MaR1's potential for immune modulation and tissue repair, offering an alternative to conventional CAP therapies.