Can nano-fat injection in patients with tempromandibular disorder alters salivary matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9?

Abstract

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a musculoskeletal condition that affects temporomandibular joint, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw area, jeopardizing the ability to eat and even sleep comfortably. A key factor in the pathogenesis of TMD is the enhanced breakdown of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen and elastin. This breakdown is mediated by enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), specifically MMP2 and MMP9. Elevated expression of MMP2 and/ or MMP9 may be involved in the pathophysiology of TMD. Methodology: Stimulated saliva samples were obtained from Thirty-two TMD patients. MMPs in collected samples were analyzed by ELISA. Results: Three months after nano-fat injection, Means of MMP2 and MMP9 were significantly decreased compared to that before procedure (139.59 versus 128.46 ng/ml, P= 0.003; and 545.37 versus 469.09 ng/ml, P= 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: this study provides evidence for a significant reduction in salivary MMP2 and MMP9 levels among TMD patients following nano-fat injection therapy. These findings suggest that nano-fat injections may have therapeutic potential for managing TMD by modulating ECM remodeling processes through their effects on these enzymes.