TNF-α levels and presence of SNP-308G/A of TNF-α gene in temporomandibular disorder patients

Abstract

Introduction: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) refers to a group of conditions that compromise the harmonious movement and function of the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. The etiopathogenesis of TMD is multifactorial but not well-understood, with the role of genetic factors still being unclear. Objective: This review aims to summarize the results of studies that evaluated TNF-α levels and the -308G/A TNF-α polymorphism in TMD patients. This study emphasizes the importance of a more selective treatment involving TNF-α inhibitors that can potentially reduce inflammation and pain, and improve quality of life. Methods: The MEDLINE/PubMed database, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science database were searched for case-control studies published until September 2020 that compared levels of TNF-α or presence of its -308G/A polymorphism in TMD patients and healthy individuals. Results: Six case-control studies were identified with a total of 398 TMD patients, aged between 12 and 78 years. The control group consisted of 149 subjects, aged between 18 and 47 years. The occurrence of TMD was predominant in females. Majority of studies found high TNF-α levels in TMD patients, compared to the control group. One of these studies found a positive correlation between the GA genotype and the development of TMD. Conclusion: Majority of the TMD patients showed elevated TNF-α levels, and a possible explanation for this could be the presence of the -308G/A polymorphism.

Risk Factors for Craniomandibular Disorders: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

“…Furthermore, the insertion of removable partial dentures did not prevent CMDs and did not improved oral function. The study by Reissman et al [1] confirmed these statements: the results of their study provided no evidence that replacing missing posterior teeth with removable prostheses reduced the risk of CMD (OR: 0.7). The preservation of a shortened dental arch was not a major risk factor for the development of CMD.…”

“…Ten articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review. [1,4,[6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] A total of 10 publications were included in our study:…”

“…• Loss of posterior tooth support: According to Reissman et al [1], preservation of a shortened dental arch was not a major risk factor for TMJ pain over a 5-year period.…”

“…Craniomandibular disorders or dysfunctions (CMD) are part of the musculoskeletal disorders causing discomfort and pain in a significant category of the population. These disorders include a heterogeneous group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles and/or surrounding tissues [1]. In addition to pain, patients who are affected by these dysfunctions frequently present with limited or asymmetrical mandibular movements and joint noises.…”

“…In addition, it is widely assumed that the etiopathogeny of CMD is multifactorial although this is not fully substantiated. [1].…”