OBJECTIVETo investigate the regulation of P2X3 protein expression in the trigeminal ganglion sensory neurons after the nociceptive stimulation by orthodontic tooth movement force.

METHODSMale Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-250 g were used. The mimic tooth movement appliance was used in experimental group rats. The animals were sacrificed after 4 h, 1 d, 2 d, 3 d, 5 d, 7 d and 14 d. The semi-quality of P2X3 protein was measured by Western blot. The expression place and strength of P2X3 was detected by in situ hybridization with an oligonucleotide probe in the same time.

RESULTSA major specific protein of 4.5 x 10(4) was found by Western blot in trigeminal ganglion of rats. The expression strength of P2X3 receptor increased after given force to the teeth of rats from 1 day of experiment, 3 day group rats showed peak change. 14 day group had returned to control values. The level change of P2X3 mRNA expression showed the same result.

CONCLUSIONThe results suggest that the P2X3 receptor expression is transiently upregulated and anterogradely transported in trigeminal primary sensory neurons after orthodontic tooth movement and that P2X3 receptor may play role in the pathomechanism of nociceptive in primary sensory neurons during orthodontic clinic treatment.