🧫 Experiment Protocol
ValidationTemporomandibular joint osteoarthritisCx43Rats with unilateral anterior crossbite modelproposed
An in vivo animal model study investigating temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) progression using a unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) model of malocclusion in rats. The study examined how abnormal occlusion leads to OA-like degeneration in the TMJ, with particular focus on changes in Cx43 expression and Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation in condylar cartilage. The UAC model was used to simulate the mechanical stress and abnormal loading conditions that contribute to TMJOA development in humans.
PRIMARY OUTCOME
OA-like degeneration in TMJ and Cx43 upregulation
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
UAC would induce OA-like changes with increased Cx43 expression and Wnt pathway activation
SUCCESS CRITERIA
Demonstration of TMJ degeneration, upregulated Cx43 expression, and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling
PROTOCOL
Induction of unilateral anterior crossbite in rats followed by assessment of TMJ degeneration, Cx43 expression analysis, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation in condylar cartilage