Immunohistochemical localization and signification of osteopontin, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein in periodontium

Objective:To investigate the distribution and signification of osteopontin, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein in periodontium. Method:The samples were obtained from the normal adult dog. The second molar and its associated periodontium were extracted from the dog. The expression of osteopontin, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein were examined by immunohistochemical technique. Result: Osteopontin was positive in periodontal ligament cells, the matrix of the ligament and the alveolar bone adjacent to the ligament, mild positive in gingivae, negative in cementum and large part of the bone; the immunostaining of osteocalcin was the same as that of osteopontin in periodontal ligament, gingivae and cementum, mild positive in alveolar bone; bone sialoprotein was positive in periodontal ligament, alveolar bone near Haversian lamella, negative in cementum and gingivae. Conclusion:Positive expression of osteopontin, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein in periodontal ligament cell and the matrix suggested that PDLCs have the potential for hard tissue formation and the ability to facilitate periodontal regenerarion. Meanwhile the distinct differences of these proteins in the fibroblast populations between periodontal ligament and gingivae may be useful as markers of cells to distinguish.