Role of matrix metalloproteinases in radicular cysts and periapical granulomas.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression and distribution of different classes of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in radicular cysts and periapical granulomas.

METHODS

Twenty consecutive specimens of radicular cysts and 20 of periapical granulomas were selected. Expression of MMP-2, -9, -8, -13, -3 was immunohistochemically evaluated. The intensity of expression of the MMPs was evaluated using a semi-quantitative analysis: low = +; intermediate = ++; high = +++.

RESULTS

Positive expression of MMPs was present with different distribution. MMP-9 expressed differently in the lesions. Indeed, in periapical granulomas low expression was found in endothelial cells and fibroblasts, whilst high intensities were only detected in inflammatory cells. On the contrary, in radicular cysts the high intensities were mainly present in keratinocytes and fibroblasts. MMP-8 was mainly expressed in inflammatory cells of periapical granulomas. MMP-2 and -3 presented a low intensity of expression in both groups. MMP-13 showed a variable pattern of distribution in the different cell types of the two different lesions.

CONCLUSION

The present investigation supports the role of MMPs in the inflammatory process leading to the development of radicular cysts and periapical granulomas. The results of the present study suggested that the increased enlargement of radicular cysts, compared to periapical granulomas, might be related to a higher expression of MMP-9. On the other hands, the higher intensity of expression of MMP-8 in periapical granulomas could be related to an active inflammatory process. MMP-8 could play an important role in the inflammation processes during the development of periapical lesions.