Evaluation of gene expression in rats subjected to orthodontic tooth movement and therapeutic doses of different amphetamines: an in vivo study

• Grant number: 24/17734-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Orthodontics
• Principal Investigator: Maria Bernadete Sasso Stuani
• Grantee: Amanda Paziani Alves Pereira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The increasing use of stimulant drugs is being observed in children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. Previous studies have examined the possible link between the use of amphetamines - the main components of these drugs - and the decrease in bone mineral density. Based on this, this project aims to evaluate the effects of constant therapeutic doses of different amphetamines during MDO in an animal model. Wistar rats (n=20) aged 50 days will be divided into 4 experimental groups. MDO will be induced in the animal using a helical spring applied to the upper first molar with a force of 0.25 N. MDO will occur only on one side of the maxilla, while the other side will serve as a control. The rats will be euthanized after 30 days of drug treatment. The samples will be submitted to gene expression of RANK, RANKL and OPG will be measured by RT-qPCR. The side not subjected to orthodontic force will also be analyzed by the same methods. The data will be statistically analyzed with a significance level of 95%. This study has the potential to produce significant findings applicable to the orthodontic treatment of adolescents, exploring the need to adapt the treatment plan considering the effects of amphetamine-based medications on MDO.