| Abstrakt: |
Objectives To investigate whether low-level laser therapy ( LLLT) alters the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the trigeminal ganglion ( TG) during different stages of temporomandibular joint ( TMJ) inflammation in rats. It also evaluated whether LLLT modifies mechanical allodynia and orofacial hyperalgesia. Materials and Methods Wistar rats (±250 g) were divided into groups that received saline ( SAL) or complete Freund's adjuvant ( CFA, 50 μl) in the TMJ, and that later underwent LLLT (20 J cm−2) at their TMJ or not (groups SAL, SAL + LLLT, CFA, and CFA + LLLT). LLLT was applied on days 3, 5, 7, and 9 after SAL or CFA. Mechanical allodynia was evaluated on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10; orofacial hyperalgesia was assessed on day 10. Gelatin zymography and in situ zymography aided quantification of MMPs in the TG. Results Low-level laser therapy abolished the reduction in the mechanical orofacial threshold and the increase in orofacial rubbing during the orofacial formalin test induced by CFA. LLLT also decreased the CFA-induced rise in the levels of MMP-9 and MMP-2 as well as the gelatinolytic activity in the TG. Conclusion Low-level laser therapy could constitute an adjuvant therapy to treat temporomandibular disorders and prevent inflammation-induced alterations in the levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and in the gelatinolytic activity in TGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
Plný text