An M-CSF receptor c-Fms antibody inhibits mechanical stress-induced root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement in mice.

Objective: To examine the effect of anti-c-Fms antibody on odontoclastogenesis and root resorption in an orthodontic tooth movement mouse model.

Materials And Methods: We used orthodontic tooth movement in which an Ni-Ti coil spring was inserted between the upper incisors and the upper first molar. Root resorption occurred in this model. Anti-c-Fms antibody was injected daily into a local site for 12 days during mechanical loading. Odontoclastogenesis and root resorption were assessed by histology and scanning electron microscopy.

Results: The anti-c-Fms antibody significantly inhibited odontoclastogenesis and root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement.

Conclusion: M-CSF and/or its receptor is a potential therapeutic target in mechanical stress- induced odontoclastogenesis, and injection of an anti-c-Fms antibody might be useful for inhibition of mechanical stress-induced root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement.