Systemic labeling and visualization of dental sensory nerves by the novel fluorescent marker AM1-43.

Systemic labeling of sensory nerves was performed by injecting a small amount of the styryl dye AM1-43 subcutaneously to the back skin of 4-week-old mice in order to determine its ability to stain sensory nerves. One or 3 days later, dental tissues were fixed and cryosectioned. Molars showed bright nerve fibers in the periodontal ligament and pulp. Nerve fibers in dentinal tubules approximately 100 microm from the pulp were also labeled. In the incisor, there were only few labelings in the pulp, although free nerve endings and Ruffini-type mechanosensors in the periodontal ligament on the lingual side were brightly labeled. The AM1-43-positive fibers were also labeled by anti-PGP9.5. AM1-43 is an excellent marker for sensory nerves and it may be useful for further investigations of dental innervation and in exploring new analgesics for tooth pain.