Analysis of a TNFRSF11A Gene Polymorphism and External Apical Root Resorption During Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

External Apical Root Resorption (EARR) can be an undesirable side effect of orthodontic treatment. Several studies have already recognized a genetic predisposition to EARR, and some have suggested possible candidate genes that may be involved. The objective of this prospective study was to explore one possible candidate gene that may predispose individuals to EARR during orthodontic treatment. The TNFRSF11A gene encodes the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa β (RANK). Together with the RANK ligand, RANK mediates cell signaling that leads to osteoclastogenesis. A diallelic marker was used to investigate the possible relationship between a nonsynonymous TNFRSF11A (RANK) polymorphism and the individuals' development of EARR concurrent with orthodontic treatment.

Buccal swab cells of 112 patients who had completed orthodontic treatment were collected for DNA isolation and analysis. EARR of the maxillary central incisors was calculated based on measurements from pre and post treatment occlusal radiographs. Linear regression analysis indicated that length of treatment, overjet, and molar classification are significant predictors of EARR (p=0.05). Other factors, including age, gender, and overbite, were not found to be significantly associated with EARR.

An ANOVA was performed to examine the relationship of the genotyped TNFRSF11A marker with the dependent variable EARR. When individuals having at least one copy of allele 2 (1,2 and 2,3 genotypes) were pooled together, a marginally significant association was found between EARR and the marker. Further analysis using logistic regression revealed that individuals with a (1,1) genotype are 4.3 times more likely to be affected by EARR than a person with a (1,2) or (2,2) genotype. From these findings it was concluded that EARR is a complex condition influenced by several treatment variables with the TNFRSF11A gene and its product (RANK) contributing to the individuals' predisposition.