The role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in chronic periodontitis progression.

Long non-coding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) is a novel pro-inflammatory factor in severe human diseases. Since inflammatory plays important roles in periodontitis progression, we aimed to explore the role of NEAT1 in chronic periodontitis (CP) in vitro. We established a periodontitis cell model was established by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (Pg-LPS)-induced periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expression of NEAT1, microRNA (miR)-200c-3p, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). Cell viability, inflammatory factors, and protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and TRAF6 were analyzed by MTT, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blot. The target relationships among NEAT1, miR-200c-3p, and TRAF6 were predicted by the StarBase/TargetScan software, and further validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. In this research, NEAT1 is up-regulated in CP tissues and periodontitis model group. Silencing of NEAT1 and over-expression of miR-200c-3p enhanced cell viability and repressed apoptosis in the periodontitis model group. NEAT1 targets miR-200c-3p, and miR-200c-3p further targets TRAF6. MiR-200c-3p inhibitor or over-expression of TRAF6 reversed the promoting effect of NEAT1 knockdown on cell viability, and the inhibiting effects on inflammatory cytokines and cell apoptosis. Consequently, the silencing of NEAT1 inhibits inflammation and apoptosis via targeting miR-200c-3p/TRAF6 axis, thereby contributing to alleviate the progression of CP. This finding could provide an underlying target for the treatment of CP.

[Application of low intensity ultrasound in the extraction of totally impacted mandibular third molars].

PURPOSE: To observe the clinical effects of low intensity ultrasound in extraction of totally impacted third molars. METHODS: 40 patients with totally impacted third molars on both sides of the mandible verified by X-ray were selected. After extraction of the teeth, the socket on one side was treated with low intensity ultrasound while the other side underwent no treatment. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 10.0 on all patients in form of pain, swelling, dry socket and bone healing. RESULTS: In the experimental group, 4 patients complained of severe pain while 16 patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Moderate or severe swelling were not uncommon in both experimental and control groups (P > 0.05); No patients suffered from dry socket in the experimental group and 4 patients suffered from dry socket in the control group (P < 0.05); There were 35 patients with complete bone healing in the experimental group while 21 patients with complete bone healing in the control group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The use of low intensity ultrasound in extraction of totally impacted mandibular third molars reduced the severity of post-operative pain and the incidence dry socket, and it also stimulated bone healing, but it showed no effect on relieving post-operative swelling.