Gene expression of growth differentiation factors in the developing periodontium of rat molars

J Dent Res. 2003 Mar;82(3):166-71. doi: 10.1177/154405910308200304.

Abstract

Growth and differentiation factors (GDF) 5, 6, and 7 are known to play roles in tendon and ligament formation, and are therefore probably involved in the formation of periodontal ligament. In this study, we sought to determine temporal and spatial expression of GDF-5, -6, and -7 mRNA in developing periodontal tissue of rat molars using in situ hybridization. GDF gene expression in the periodontal ligament was first detected in cells associated with the initial process of periodontal ligament fiber bundle formation. Gene signals were also detected in cells located along the alveolar bone and cementum surfaces, the insertion sites of periodontal ligaments, during the course of root formation. GDF expression in these cells were down-regulated after completion of root formation. Our results appeared to suggest the involvement of GDF-5, -6, and -7 in the formation of the dental attachment apparatus.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alveolar Process / growth & development
  • Alveolar Process / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins / biosynthesis
  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins / genetics*
  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins / physiology*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cementogenesis / genetics
  • Dental Cementum / metabolism
  • Dental Sac / cytology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 5
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 6
  • Growth Differentiation Factors
  • In Situ Hybridization
  • Male
  • Molar / growth & development
  • Periodontal Ligament / growth & development*
  • Periodontal Ligament / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / biosynthesis
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Tooth Root / growth & development

Substances

  • Bone Morphogenetic Proteins
  • Gdf6 protein, rat
  • Gdf7 protein, rat
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 5
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 6
  • Growth Differentiation Factors
  • RNA, Messenger
  • growth differentiation factor 7