Non-invasive in vivo imaging by confocal laser scanning microscopy of gingival tissues following natural plaque deposition.

AIM: Imaging with Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) generates high-resolution images and may be well suited for basic research in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry. The present study was aimed to explore the in vivo application of CLSM in experimentally induced gingivitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten subjects were recruited and were advised to stop any oral hygiene of the upper front teeth for 7 days. The gingival tissues were observed using a Heidelberg Retina Tomograph combined with a Rostock Cornea Module at baseline and day 7. The system used a laser of 670 nm and the contrast was given by backscattering from different tissues. Each examination created 800-1200 images that were descriptively analysed. RESULTS: After 7 days of abandoned oral hygiene, plaque scores and bleeding frequencies increased. By using CLSM images tooth hard substances, cells and plaque deposits were distinguishable. Increased epithelial cell irregularities, the apical migration of the sulcular epithelium, cellular infiltrates within the sulcus and plaque deposits were observed at day 7. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed for the first time that CLSM is suitable for in vivo imaging of the gingival sulcus and adjacent tissues.

Distribution changes of epithelial dendritic cells in canine cornea and mucous membranes related to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Dendritic cells (DCs) are important immune mediators following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We screened for DC frequency in the cornea and oral mucous membranes after HSCT by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) in a canine model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vivo CLSM images of the epithelia were taken the day before and on days 28, 56 and 112 following HSCT. Peripheral blood counts and chimerism were determined. RESULTS: An increase of DCs after HSCT was detected in each animal in both investigated tissue types. Highest DC numbers in the flew and the gingiva were detected on day 28 and in the corneal epithelium on day 56 after HSCT, respectively. CONCLUSION: Changes of DCs in ocular and non-ocular mucous membranes can be monitored by CLSM in vivo. The DC frequency in the cornea and mucosa changes following HSCT. DC recovery is rapid and their numbers correlate with the development of chimerism of peripheral blood mononuclear cells.