OBJECTIVETo study the role of microfilament polymerization in menchanotransduction by human periodontal ligament fibroblast (hPDLFs).

METHODSIn tension-force group, hPDLFs were treated by tension-force values of 18% for 8 h, 16 h, 24 h. In tension-force and inhibitor group, the sample was treated with 5 microg/mL cytochalasin B before using tension-forece. Each sample was collected and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 was measured by using immunohistoche staining.

RESULTSIn tension-force group, the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 enhanced with the extension of loading time. In tension-force and inhibitor group, cyclooxygenase-2 expression was depressed and had no relation with loading time.

CONCLUSIONTension-force induced cyclooxygenase-2 expression is mediated by microfilament, disruption of the microfilament polymerization will destroy mechanotransduction in hPDLFs.