Inflammation from chronic and acute infections of distal organs and tissues such as periodontitis is a risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular processes. Recently, a new model of atherosclerosis with vascular pathologies was developed in the Mongolian gerbil. In this study, we attempted to develop a model of ligature-induced periodontitis in gerbils and compared the characteristics of that periodontitis model with that in rats and mice. Each gerbil, rat, and mouse was randomly assigned to groups of control and periodontitis. A thread was placed around the cervix of the right and left first molars in the mandible with knots placed on the mesial side of each molar. At day 14 after the ligation, the animals were sacrificed and their mandibles were dissected. To measure alveolar bone loss along with inflammation, histopathological and micro-CT analyses were carried out. Gerbils showed tooth characteristics of deeper gingival crevice, longer cusp, longer root trunk and shorter root than those of rats and mice. The increased CEJ-ABC distance in distal and PDL area in furcation was also observed in ligated gerbils. An inflammatory response in the connective tissue under the junctional epithelium was also shown in all the animals. As a result, we confirmed the induction of periodontitis by ligature in the gerbils. We therefore consider the gerbil to be a useful model for investigating relationship between periodontitis and vascular disease in the same animal.
Alveolar Bone Loss ; Animals* ; Atherosclerosis ; Cervix Uteri ; Connective Tissue ; Epithelial Attachment ; Female ; Gerbillinae* ; Inflammation ; Ligation ; Mandible ; Mice ; Models, Animal* ; Molar ; Pathology ; Periodontitis* ; Rats ; Risk Factors ; Tooth ; Vascular Diseases

Cisplatin, a platinum-derived compound, has been used in treatment of various types of cancers including oral cancer. Despite its wide usage, cisplatin has multiple adverse effects affecting the systemic health of patients. Schisandrin C is a natural compound derived from Schisandra chinensis. Studies have shown its beneficial effects including antioxidant activity, hepatoprotective and renal protective actions. However, effect of schisandrin C on cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity has not been studied extensively. In this study, we examined the effect of schisandrin C treatment on YD-38 oral squamous carcinoma cell line, in combination with cisplatin treatment. Effect of schisandrin C on cisplatin-induced cell death was examined by MTT assay and live and dead cell staining. Changes in apoptosis-related intracellular signal, and ROS generation were measured by immunoblot and flow cytometry. Schisandrin C showed protective effect against cisplatin-induced cell death. Schisandrin C inhibited phosphorylation of JNK, expression of Bax, cleavage of caspase 3, and release of mitochondrial cytochrome c. In contrast, expression of Bcl2 and phosphorylation of Akt were increased by schisandrin C. Schisandrin C also suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species generation. These results suggest that schisandrin C has a protective effect against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity and showed a potential to be used in combination with cisplatin during chemotherapy to reduce side effects.

Xerostomia is defined as the subjective complaint of dry mouth with or without hyposalivation, which is insufficient salivary secretion from salivary gland. Xerostomia can lead to multiple oral symptoms such as dental caries, halitosis, burning mouth syndrome, and oral candidiasis, which can significantly impact the well-being of patients, especially in geriatric patients who may already have compromised health. Clinical findings of xerostomia include decreased salivary flow and alterations in salivary composition. These changes can lead to various oral health problems such as dental caries, periodontitis, swallowing and speaking difficulties, taste disturbances, halitosis, mucosal diseases, and burning mouth syndrome. Recognizing these clinical manifestations is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management. Although several reasons and risk factors have been suggested for xerostomia such as aging, chemo-radiation therapy, systemic disease, and Sjögren’s syndrome, the polypharmacy is recently highlighted especially in elderly patients. Understanding the etiology and risk factors associated with xerostomia is crucial for effective management. To manage xerostomia patients, a multidisciplinary guideline should be established beyond dental care. Through this literature review, we summarized consideration for diagnostic, therapeutic, nursing essentials for the clinical guideline. By addressing the underlying causes and implementing appropriate treatment strategies, healthcare professionals can improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from xerostomia.