Oro-facial functions in experimental models of cerebral palsy: a systematic review.

Children who suffer from cerebral palsy (CP) often present comorbidities in the form of oro-facial dysfunctions. Studies in animals have contributed to elaborate potential therapies aimed at minimising the chronic disability of the syndrome. To systematically review the scientific literature regarding the possible effects that experimental models of CP can have on oro-facial functions. Two independent authors conducted a systematic review in the electronic databases Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Lilacs, using Mesh and Decs terms in animal models. The motor and sensory parameters of sucking, chewing and swallowing were considered as primary outcomes; reactivity odour, controlled salivation, postural control, head mobility during feeding and the animal's ability to acquire food were secondary outcomes. Ten studies were included in the present review. Most studies used rabbits as experimental models of CP, which was induced by either hypoxia-ischemia, inflammation or intraventricular haemorrhage. Oro-facial functions were altered in all experimental models of CP. However, we found more modifications in hypoxia-ischemia models overall. On the other hand, the model of inflammation was more effective to reproduce higher damage for coordinating sucking and swallowing. All of the CP experimental models that were assessed modified the oral functions in different animal species. However, further studies should be conducted in order to clarify the mechanisms underlying oro-facial damage in order to optimise treatment strategies for children who suffer from CP.

Effect of early undernutrition on masticatory morphophysiology: review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION: Certain periods of development of the nervous system are critically vulnerable to environmental insults because of the processes involved that cycle very quickly. Morphologic and functional development of mastication occurs coincidently during these stages. Early environmental insults during critical periods can cause permanent effects on both structures and functions of organic systems that can have lasting repercussions in adulthood. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated, through a literature review, the possible effects of perinatal calorie and/or protein low diet on structural and physiological development of mastication. DESIGN: A systematic literature search was conducted from in the PUBMED electronic database. In collecting literature we used the keywords: "undernutrition" and "stomatognathic system". Criteria used in the selection of articles for inclusion were: studies evaluating the effects of perinatal calorie and/or protein low diet on masticatory morphology and function. Exclusion criteria included, short communications and nonavailability in full text format. CONCLUSION: Undernutrition during critical periods of life causes changes in the key structures of masticatory function. This fact can affect the selection of essential nutrients, thereby interfering with the process of satiation.