Effect of Static Compressive Force on Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activity in Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts

Abstract

Background: The application of static compressive forces to periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) in vivo or in vitro has been linked to the expression of biochemical agents and local tissue modifications that could be involved in maintaining homeostasis during orthodontic movement. An approach used for identifying mesenchymal cells, or a subpopulation of progenitor cells in both tumoral and normal tissues, involves determining the activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). However, the role of subpopulations of PDLF-derived undifferentiated cells in maintaining homeostasis during tooth movement remains unclear. Objective: This study aimed at analyzing the effect of applying a static compressive force to PDLFs on the activity of ALDH in these cells. Methods: PDLFs were distributed into two groups: control group (CG), where fibroblasts were not submitted to compression, and experimental group (EG), where fibroblasts were submitted to a static compressive force of 4 g/mm2 for 6 hours. The compressive force was applied directly to the cells using a custom-built device. ALDH activity in the PDLFs was evaluated by a flow cytometry assay. Results: ALDH activity was observed in both groups, but was significantly lower in EG than in CG after the application of a static compressive force in the former. Conclusion: Application of a static compressive force to PDLFs decreased ALDH activity.