A Modified Ligature-Induced Peri-Implantitis Murine Model and RNA Sequencing Analysis Compared With Human Subjects

Aim: To propose a modified method for establishing a peri-implantitis murine model, assess the gene expression profile and immune cell infiltration of the gingiva and alveolar bone, and evaluate the transcriptomic similarity between patients with peri-implantitis and the corresponding murine model.

Materials and methods: A ligature-induced peri-implantitis murine model was established using an immediate implant placement approach. RNA sequencing was performed to determine the transcriptomic profiles of peri-implant tissues from mice, patients with peri-implantitis and healthy individuals. Histopathological and bioinformatics analyses were performed to measure immune cell infiltration, bone remodelling, and inflammatory reactions.

Results: Mouse gingival tissue showed strong immune and inflammatory responses, especially macrophage functions; these responses were weaker in the alveolar bone. Humans and mice showed similar gene expression patterns in the gingiva, with greater infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils.

Conclusions: During peri-implantitis progression, mouse gingival tissue exhibited increased immune-related functions and inflammation compared with the alveolar bone. Patients with peri-implantitis and the murine model displayed transcriptomic similarities within the gingiva. We propose that the modified ligature-induced peri-implantitis murine model is suitable for investigating peri-implantitis pathogenesis, with macrophages and neutrophils potentially being critical in its development.