Evaluation of the IL-6 Gene in External Apical Root Resorption Associated with Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

The objective of this project is to investigate the possibility that a functional polymorphism of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene is associated with external apical root resorption (EARR) during orthodontic tooth movement. If genes that are involved in EARR could be identified and easily screened, the orthodontist could adjust the patient's treatment plan accordingly. Having information about a patient's susceptibility to EARR could help diagnose and treat a patient accordingly. This would allow orthodontists to monitor patients more closely or modify the treatment plan to minimize the amount EARR.

The study sample consists of 60 subjects from 36 different families. The siblings had received orthodontic treatment at Indiana University School of Dentistry or in the private practice of Dr. James V. Macri. EARR was not a prerequisite to be included in this sample. Informed consent was obtained for sample collection. This study received Indiana University School of Dentistry Student Research Subcommittee Review and Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis Institutional Review Board approval.

No significant difference between any of the IL-6 genotypes and EARR could be noted. The hypothesis that individuals with the IL-6 -174 C/C genotype would show a greater amount of EARR during orthodontic treatment could not be supported.