Assessment of novel methods for the characterization of osteocytes and cementocytes in healthy teeth and teeth with periapical lesions.

• Grant number: 25/04225-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Pediatric Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Andiara de Rossi
• Grantee: Larissa Witzel Silva dos Santos
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Osteocytes and cementocytes play a fundamental role in maintaining the homeostasis of bone and dental tissues. Osteocytes regulate bone remodeling by communicating with osteoblasts and osteoclasts, ensuring skeletal integrity. Cementocytes, embedded in the root cementum, are essential for dental stability and attachment. The interaction of these cells with their microenvironment influences mineral homeostasis and can be affected by inflammatory processes, such as periapical lesions, leading to structural damage in bone and dental tissues. Despite their importance, there are gaps in understanding their morphological and quantitative changes during lesion progression. This study aims to develop and validate new methodologies for characterizing and quantifying these cells in both healthy and pathological conditions, using histological analysis and digital imaging tools. Establishing standardized protocols may enhance research on periapical lesion pathogenesis and improve knowledge of mineralized tissue biology. The findings could contribute to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, benefiting regenerative dentistry and advancing the understanding of periapical diseases. (AU)