miRNA-Based Early Healing Mechanism of Extraction Sockets: miR-190a-5p, a Potential Enhancer of Bone Healing

Biomaterials and therapeutic strategies designed for tooth extraction socket healing

Tooth extraction is the most commonly performed oral surgical procedure, with a wide range of clinical indications. The oral cavity is a complex microenvironment, influenced by oral movements, salivary flow, and bacterial biofilms. These factors can contribute to delayed socket healing and the onset of post-extraction complications, which can burden patients' esthetic and functional rehabilitation. Achieving effective extraction socket healing requires a multidisciplinary approach. Recent advancements in materials science and bioengineering have paved the way for developing novel strategies. This review outlines the fundamental healing processes and cellular-molecular interactions involved in the healing of extraction sockets. It then delves into the current landscape of biomaterials for socket healing, highlighting emerging strategies and potential targets that could transform the treatment paradigm. Building upon this foundation, this review also presents future directions and identifies challenges associated with the clinical application of biomaterials for extraction socket healing.

Effect of miR-654-3p targeting EMP1 on osteoblast activity and differentiation in delayed fracture healing

BACKGROUND

Delayed fracture healing (DFH) is a common postoperative complication in fracture patients, and a validated serum marker may aid in the clinical management and improve the prognosis of fracture patients. In this study, we investigated the diagnostic role and potential regulatory mechanisms of miR-654-3p in DFH.

METHODS

73 patients with DFH and 75 patients with normal fracture healing (NFH) were included. Expression of miR-654-3p and EMP1 and several mRNA markers of osteogenic differentiation were evaluated by RT-qPCR. The diagnostic value of miR-654-3p and EMP1 alone and in combination was assessed using ROC curves. Cell proliferation capacity was assessed by CCK-8 and apoptosis rate by flow cytometry. DLR experiments demonstrated the targeting relationship between miR-654-3p and EMP1.

RESULTS

Levels of miR-654-3p were found to be significantly lower in DFH compared to NFH. Following cell differentiation treatment, miR-654-3p levels increased and EMP1 levels decreased. Furthermore, a negative correlation was identified between miR-654-3p and EMP1 target binding and expression levels. The combination of miR-654-3p and EMP1 holds significant diagnostic value for DFH. miR-654-3p high expression can inhibit EMP1 levels, which promotes cell proliferation, increases osteoblast activity and levels of differentiation markers, and decreases the rate of apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

miR-654-3p and EMP1 are aberrantly expressed in DFH, and both have high diagnostic value for DFH. miR-654-3p is involved in the proliferation, differentiation, and apoptotic activities of osteoblasts by regulating the level of EMP1, thus affecting the progression of DFH.

Alveolar ridge preservation in post-extraction sockets using concentrated growth factors: a split-mouth, randomized, controlled clinical trial

Aim

The aim of this clinical trial was to assess the impact of autologous concentrated growth factor (CGF) as a socket-filling material and its ridge preservation properties following the lower third molar extraction.

Materials and methods

A total of 60 sides of 30 participants who had completely symmetrical bilateral impacted lower third molars were enrolled. The primary outcome variables of the study were bone height and width, bone density, and socket surface area in the coronal section. Cone beam computed tomography images were obtained immediately after surgery and three months after surgery as a temporal measure. Follow-up data were compared to the baseline using paired and unpaired t-tests.

Results

CGF sites had higher values in height and width when compared to control sites (Buccal wall 32.9 ± 3.5 vs 29.4 ± 4.3 mm, Lingual wall 25.4 ± 3.5 vs 23.1 ± 4 mm, and Alveolar bone width 21.07 ± 1.55vs19.53 ± 1.90 mm, respectively). Bone density showed significantly higher values in CGF sites than in control sites (Coronal half 200 ± 127.3 vs -84.1 ± 121.3 and Apical half 406.5 ± 103 vs 64.2 ± 158.6, respectively). There was a significant difference between both sites in the reduction of the periodontal pockets.

Conclusion

CGF application following surgical extraction provides an easy, low-cost, and efficient option for alveolar ridge preservation. Thus, the use of CGF by dentists during dental extractions may be encouraged, particularly when alveolar ridge preservation is required.

Clinical trial registration

TCTR identification, TCTR20221028003.