Dentine sialoprotein expression in gingival crevicular fluid during trauma-induced root resorption.

AIM To detect and quantify dentine sialoprotein (DSP) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of luxated teeth. METHODOLOGY Eighteen subjects were enroled and distributed as follows. Group I (n = 6, positive control): subjects with primary second molar teeth undergoing physiological root resorption. Group II (n = 6, negative control): subjects with permanent mature maxillary central incisors. Subjects with a recent history (<1 week) of luxation injury were included in group III (n = 6, test group) and standardized digital radiographs with a superimposed mesh gauge were exposed at various time intervals. Percentage of radiographic root resorption (%RRR) was calculated. GCF was collected using microcapillary pipettes. DSP in the GCF was quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay. Group III was subjected to Spearman's rank test to establish the correlation between the concentration of DSP and %RRR at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months. RESULTS Quantifiable amounts of DSP were released in the GCF of subjects in Group I and III. However, the protein was not detected in Group II. Detectable quantities of DSP were observed in the GCF of luxated teeth before any radiographic evidence of root resorption (base line radiograph). A positive correlation was established at 6 weeks (r = 0.795), 3 (r = 0.755) and 6 month (r = 0.837) between the release of DSP and %RRR (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Dentine sialoprotein was released in the GCF of luxated teeth and its concentration correlated with the active and remission phases of this pathological process. Further investigation is required to establish a potentially noninvasive aid for diagnosing and monitoring root resorption.