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Neural structures within the sheep temporomandibular joint
A Tahmasebi-Sarvestani1, R A Tedman, A Goss
1Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Adelaide, Australia.
Journal of Orofacial Pain
|July 1, 1996
Summary
This study details the normal innervation of sheep temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissues. Findings reveal sensory and autonomic nerves in the TMJ capsule, synovial membrane, and disc periphery, crucial for arthritis research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Anatomy
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Arthritis research requires understanding temporomandibular joint (TMJ) innervation.
- Sheep TMJ serves as a model for studying joint pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map the normal innervation of the sheep TMJ.
- To establish a baseline for arthritis-induced innervation changes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized fluorescence histochemistry (glyoxylic acid) and immunohistochemistry (calcitonin gene-related peptide).
- Employed silver and gold chloride staining techniques.
- Examined TMJ tissues from 10 mature merino sheep.
Main Results:
- Sensory nerve fibers (CGRP-immunoreactive) found in capsule and synovial membrane, absent in the disc.
- Autonomic and sensory nerves identified in the capsule, synovial membrane, and peripheral disc.
- Highest nerve density in the posterior capsule (gold chloride) and anterior capsule (glyoxylic acid).
Conclusions:
- Sheep TMJ exhibits autonomic and sensory innervation in key structures.
- This detailed innervation map is vital for future arthritis studies in sheep models.