Development of nerve fibres in the temporomandibular joint of the human fetus.

The development of nerve fibres in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in relation to the development of bone, muscle and fibre components was investigated in human fetuses ranging from 9 weeks of gestation to birth. Immunohistochemistry for the glia-associated protein S-100 and for the neuro-specific marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.

Innervation of the human temporomandibular joint capsule and disc as revealed by immunohistochemistry for neurospecific markers.

An immunohistochemical investigation for the neurospecific markers S-100 protein and protein gene product 9.5 was carried out on 12 healthy temporomandibular joint discs and capsules that were taken at autopsy from human adults. Large nerve trunks in the joint capsule and posterior disc ligament, as well as small nerve bundles and single nerves in almost all parts of the capsule, were heavily stained by anti-S-100 antiserum.