Related Experiment Videos
Microvascular luminal volume changes in aged mouse periodontal ligament
M R Sims1, P I Leppard, W J Sampson
1Faculty of Dentistry, University of Sydney, N.S.W., Australia.
Journal of Dental Research
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Aging increases blood vessel volume in the periodontal ligament, contrary to expectations. This study found increased microvascular volume in aged mouse ligaments, suggesting altered diffusion barriers with age.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Vascular Biology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Microvascular data in aged periodontal ligaments are lacking.
- Aging effects on periodontal ligament vasculature are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that luminal microvascular volume decreases in aged periodontal ligaments.
- To investigate age-related changes in the microvascular bed of the periodontal ligament.
Main Methods:
- Vascular perfusion and electron microscopy of periodontal ligaments from young (35-day-old) and aged (1-year-old) mice.
- Stereological analysis of vessel lumen volume, surface, and length densities at 150-micron intervals.
- Generalized linear model analysis to assess aging effects across ligament regions.
Main Results:
- Mean periodontal ligament width decreased significantly in aged mice.
- Luminal microvascular volume increased in aged ligaments compared to young ligaments.
- Collecting venules and arterio-venous anastomoses showed a two-fold increase in luminal volume density (p < 0.01).
- Reduced average cross-sectional tissue area and ligament thickness served per capillary in aged ligaments.
Conclusions:
- The hypothesis of decreased luminal microvascular volume in aged periodontal ligaments was rejected.
- Aging leads to an increase in microvascular volume and altered distribution within the periodontal ligament.
- Changes in microvascular architecture suggest a compromised diffusion barrier with age, potentially impacting tissue health.