Genetics of Root Resorption Associated with Orthodontic Force in Mice

Abstract

External apical root resorption (EARR) is a common complication of orthodontic treatment. Genetic factors account for approximately 50% of the variation in EARR. Data have indicated variation in histological root resorption associated with orthodontic force (RRAOF) among different inbred strains of mice. Differences in expression of RANKL and OPG were investigated in two strains of mice with different susceptibility to RRAOF using irnmunohistochemistry. Increased localization of RANKL was detected in the tissues surrounding the root of the susceptible strain compared to the resistant strain and the controls. In contrast, increased localization of OPG was found in the tissues surrounding the roots in the resistant A/J strain compared to the susceptible DBA/2J strain. We conclude that differences in the expression of these key bone resorption mediators play a role in determining RRAOF susceptibility. Changes in serum TRAP 5b level in response to orthodontic force were investigated among female A/J, DBA/2J and BALB/cJ mice. The three strains differed in their TRAP positive cell numbers as well as their serum TRAP 5b level at baseline and when treated. A significant increase in the serum TRAP 5b level with treatment was only detected in the RRAOF susceptible DBA/2J strain, and not in RRAOF resistant strains. Our analysis indicates that differences in osteoclast/odontoclast activity play a role in susceptibility to RRAOF that is genetically determined. Serum TRAP 5b levels have a potential role in screening for individuals with greater susceptibility to root resorption. RRAOF was determined for male and female mice of the A/J, DBA/2J and BALB/cJ strains, as well as A/J x DBA/2J and A/J x BALB/cJ crosses. Sex differences were observed among the BALB/cJ strain only, with females more resistant to RRAOF when compared to males. Fis from the A/J x BALB/cJ cross were resistant suggesting that the A/J have dominant resistance alleles, while Fis from the A/J x DBA/2J cross had RRAOF intermediate between their parental A/J and DBA/2J mice, suggesting a polygenic trait. We concluded that the mode of inheritance of RRAOF in mice was polygenic in nature.