Kazuhisa Bessho

Bone morphogenetic protein-2 in temporomandibular joints with internal derangement

OBJECTIVEnThe purpose of this study was to analyze the expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.nnnSTUDY DESIGNnTwenty-one human temporomandibular joint samples (5 extirpated disks and 16 biopsy specimens of synovitis area from patients with internal derangement of the TMJ) and 2 control temporomandibular joint specimens (2 normal disks obtained by autopsy) were analyzed with specific antibodies through use of an immunohistochemical technique.nnnRESULTSnBMP-2 was predominantly localized in chondrocytes around the damaged areas of the articular disks. BMP-2 expression was also found in synovial cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels. Control specimens demonstrated BMP-2 staining in synovial lining cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels. However, the chondrocytes in the normal cartilage layers of the control specimens showed no staining.nnnCONCLUSIONSnThese findings suggest that BMP-2 may be involved in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritic changes or the repair process of temporomandibular joint internal derangement.