Efficacy of ozone therapy for oral mucosa wound healing: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of ozone therapy in oral ulcers healing when compared to placebo or active treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The search was carried out using PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Lilacs databases. Clinical trials involving human participants were included. The Risk Ratio (RR) and the standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95%CI (confidence interval) were calculated. The ROBINS-I (risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions) and RoB2 (risk of bias tool for randomized trials) assessment tool was used to detect bias. RESULTS: After the selection process, 12 studies were included. The meta-analysis showed that ozone therapy helps to reduce the size of the traumatic and autoimmune ulcers (RR=-0.44; 95% CI -0.71,-0.17; I2=0%) in comparison to placebo. Regarding pain reduction, ozone was superior to placebo (RR = 1.29, 95% CI -1.6 to -0.95); I2=0%), and equivalent to topical corticosteroid and laser photobiomodulation (RR = 0.26, 95% CI -0.27,0.78, p = 0.34). CONCLUSION: Ozone therapy is an alternative for accelerating healing and reducing pain for both traumatic and autoimmune ulcers. However, the quality of evidence is limited. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Oral ulcerations are usually painful and impact quality of life requiring different approaches to boost wound healing and reduce symptoms. For this purpose, ozone therapy is a promising strategy.

Severe radiographic artifact created by a large fenestration of the skin and labial mucosa following placement of a plate piercing: a case report.

The presence of facial jewelry and medical devices within a radiographic field of view may promote the formation of artifacts that challenge diagnostic interpretation. The objective of this article is to describe a previously unreported radiographic anomaly produced by an oral piercing site below the lower lip. This unusual artifact masqueraded as a severe resorptive defect, dental caries, or cervical abfraction and occurred following removal of an extremely large labret below the lower lip and subsequent acquisition of a radiographic image. The radiolucency was ultimately attributed to an extensive aperture below the lower lip created by a series of sequentially larger soft tissue expanders. Clinicians should seek correlation of atypical radiographic presentations with soft tissue defects secondary to injury or intentional oral piercing.

Multifocal epithelial hyperplasia: an understudied infectious disease affecting ethnic groups. A mini review.

Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia or Multifocal Epithelial Hyperplasia (MEH), also known as Heck's disease, is considered a rare pathology of the oral mucosa associated with human papillomavirus types 13 and 32. For reasons not fully understood, MEH disproportionally affects specific populations of indigenous groups around the world. After the first reports in Native Americans, the epidemiology of the disease has been described in different geographical regions mainly related to particular indigenous populations, the majority of the studies are clinical case reports, but the biological determinants are still unknown. Some suggested risk factors include chronic irritation caused by smoking, a galvanic current, vitamin A deficiency, and/or a familial-genetic predisposition; however, the scientific evidence is not solid due the scarcity of case-control studies or longitudinal cohorts. In light of the evidence, further study of the pathology of MEH should be considered and proper clinical trials for effective treatments should be designed. The disease warrants further study as it is considered as neglected by research and it affects rural/remote population groups usually living in adverse socioeconomic conditions.

Genotoxicity and Micronucleus Formation as a Result of Panoramic Radiography in Epithelial Cells of the Buccal Mucosa: A Cross-sectional Study in Adults.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the genetic effects of panoramic radiography on the epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa by examining the micronucleus formation in these cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, exfoliative cytology samples were prepared from the buccal mucosa of 36 patients immediately before and 10 days after panoramic radiography. The samples were prepared using liquid-based cytology with Papanicolaou staining. The slides were simultaneously evaluated by two expert pathologists and the ratio of the number of cells with micronuclei to the total number of cells on the slide was reported as a percentage. Data analysis was done using paired-samples T test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and covariance analysis (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 24 (66.67%) males and 12 females (33.33%) with a mean (SD) age of 27.36 (8.19) years. The frequency of cells with micronucleus before and after panoramic radiography was not statistically different (p = 0.468). Additionally, the frequency of micronucleated cells was not correlated with age (p = 0.737) and sex (p = 0.211). CONCLUSION: Panoramic exposure slightly increased the frequency of cells with micronucleus in epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa. However, this increase was not statistically significant.

Tailored Sticky Solutions: 3D-Printed Miconazole Buccal Films for Pediatric Oral Candidiasis.

In this research, 3D-printed antifungal buccal films (BFs) were manufactured as a potential alternative to commercially available antifungal oral gels addressing key considerations such as ease of manufacturing, convenience of administration, enhanced drug efficacy and suitability of paediatric patients. The fabrication process involved the use of a semi-solid extrusion method to create BFs from zein-Poly-Vinyl-Pyrrolidone (zein-PVP) polymer blend, which served as a carrier for drug (miconazole) and taste enhancers. After manufacturing, it was determined that the disintegration time for all films was less than 10 min. However, these films are designed to adhere to buccal tissue, ensuring sustained drug release. Approximately 80% of the miconazole was released gradually over 2 h from the zein/PVP matrix of the 3D printed films. Moreover, a detailed physicochemical characterization including spectroscopic and thermal methods was conducted to assess solid state and thermal stability of film constituents. Mucoadhesive properties and mechanical evaluation were also studied, while permeability studies revealed the extent to which film-loaded miconazole permeates through buccal tissue compared to commercially available oral gel formulation. Histological evaluation of the treated tissues was followed. Furthermore, in vitro antifungal activity was assessed for the developed films and the commercial oral gel. Finally, films underwent a two-month drug stability test to ascertain the suitability of the BFs for clinical application. The results demonstrate that 3D-printed films are a promising alternative for local administration of miconazole in the oral cavity.

Development and validation of betel-year: a clinical tool for quantifying exposure to betel quid chewing, utilizing nuclear morphometric analysis and validated by cytomorphological analysis.

BACKGROUND: Betel quid chewing, prevalent in Southeast Asia and South Asia, involves components such as betel leaf, areca nut, slaked lime, and sometimes tobacco. This study aims to assess buccal mucosa changes in betel quid chewers, develop a clinical tool for assessing exposure, and investigate its usability in predicting dysplasia. METHODS: After obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, patients were recruited from the Out-Patient Department of Government Medical College, Omandurar, Government Estate, India. A target sample size of 200 was calculated. The data included the history of betel quid chewing, buccal mucosa cells obtained by oral cytology, and the severity of dysplasia of the slides assessed by pathologists. We utilized principal component analysis (PCA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to validate a new outcome variable reflecting nuclear morphometric parameters (NMPs). Multiplicative regression models were developed for betel years based on betel exposure and additives. Spearman correlation and Kruskal-Wallis test was used to check the association between betel years and dysplasia. RESULTS: Significant differences in NMPs were observed among different betel chewing groups. We derived multiplicative regression models for betel years. In the logarithmic transformation approach, betel year = 0.05×betel-exposure×0.09×slaked-lime use×0.11×tobacco-use. In the original variable approach, betel year = 5.05×betel-exposure^0.00048×slaked-lime-use^0.18133×tobacco-use^1.47513. Spearman correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests confirmed associations with dysplasia. CONCLUSION: Betel year is a pioneering tool for assessing lifetime betel quid exposure, similar to pack years for smoking. It could aid in risk stratification, targeted interventions and shaping public health policies. Despite limitations, betel year holds promise for revolutionizing oral health risk assessment, and future research can expand its scope globally, considering diverse betel quid compositions.

[Study of the mucosal morphological difference of distal-extension of mandibular dentition defect impressions taken by intra-oral digital scanning and selective pressure impression technique].

PURPOSE: To compare the mucosal morphological difference in distal-extension area of mandibular dentition defect taken by intra-oral digital scanning and selective pressure impression techniques. METHODS: Seventeen patients with Kennedy Class I and Class II dentition defect in lower jaw were included, including twenty-two distal-extensions. Intraoral digital scanning and functional impression technique were taken in each patients, respectively. Laboratory cast scanner was used to scan the plaster casts made from the selective pressure impression to obtain the three-dimensional data. All the data were stored in STL format. The 3D data collecting from intra-oral digital scanning and selective pressure impression from the same patient were compared by Geomagic Control 2014 software. Root mean square of 2.5mm diameter area was calculated in 5,10,15 mm from terminal tooth. Pearson's correlation test was used to analyze the correlation of the distance and morphological difference with SPSS 20.0 software package. RESULTS: Mean mucosal morphological difference of jaw distal-extension edentulous area taken by intra-oral digital scanning and selective pressure impression techniques was (0.37±0.12) mm. There was positive correlation between distance from terminal tooth and mucosal morphological difference(P＜0.05). Morphological differences in 5, 10, 15 mm from terminal tooth were (0.14±0.11) mm, (0.22±0.13) mm and (0.39±0.16) mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, there was positive correlation between the length of distal-extension edentulous area and mucosal morphological difference, while the kind of ridge defect and mucosal thickness may also affect the morphological difference quantity.

Early intervention with oral mucosal barrier Protective agents in chronic oral graft-versus-host disease: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Preventing the progression of chronic oral graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is essential for maintaining oral health, improving quality of life, minimizing functional impairment, reducing systemic complications, and addressing treatment challenges. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of early intervention with oral mucosal barrier protective agents in preventing the progression of cGVHD and its impact on oral health, quality of life, and treatment response. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 75 participants, with 34 in the non-oral mucosal barrier protective agent group and 41 in the oral mucosal barrier protective agent group. Baseline characteristics, oral mucosal health parameters, quality of life assessments, and curative effect data were collected and compared between the two study groups. RESULTS: The group receiving oral mucosal barrier protectants (n = 41) exhibited significantly lower severity of oral mucositis compared to the group without such protectants (n = 34) (2.12 ± 0.48 vs. 2.56 ± 0.63, P = 0.001) and the incidence of complications was significantly lower in the group receiving oral mucosal barrier protectants (P < 0.05). Additionally, the quality of life assessment showed marked improvements in somatization, emotional management, and social reintegration in the oral mucosal barrier protectant group compared to the group without these protectants (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the assessment of treatment efficacy revealed significantly higher rates of both complete and partial responses in the oral mucosal barrier protectant group, along with a notable reduction in disease progression compared to the group without these protectants (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Early intervention with oral mucosal barrier protective agents was associated with improved oral health parameters, enhanced quality of life, and a more favorable treatment response in the context of cGVHD.

Detection and consistency of mucosal fluid T lymphocyte phenotypes and their relationship with blood, age and gender.

Innate and adaptive immune responses at mucosal surfaces play a role in protection against most infectious diseases. However, the relative importance either of mucosal versus systemic, or of cellular versus humoral immunity in protection against such infections remains unclear. We aimed to determine the relative percentages and reproducibility of detection of five major T lymphocyte phenotypes in stimulated whole mouth fluid (SWMF); to compare matched mucosal and blood phenotypes; to evaluate the consistency of phenotypes in SWMF over time; and to determine any associations with age or gender. Peripheral blood and SWMF samples were collected from 194 participants and sequential concomitant samples were collected from 27 of those and from 12 subjects living with HIV. CD3, CD4, CD8, Th1 and Th2 T lymphocyte phenotypes were determined by FACS. All the five T lymphocyte phenotypes were detected consistently by FACS in PBMC and SWMF with experimental replicates (N = 10; PBMC CV: 3-30%; SWMF CV: 12-36%). In longitudinal samples detection rates were reproducible in both fluids but variations were higher in SWMF (CV: 23-79.6%) than PBMC (CV: 9.7-75%). Statistically significant correlations of the percentages of all the T lymphocyte phenotypes except CD8 was seen between the two fluids. In PBMCs a negative correlation with age was found with CD3, CD4 and CD8 phenotypes, whilst a positive correlation was found in both SWMF and PBMC with the Th2 phenotype. CD3, CD4 and CD8 phenotypes in SWMF and PBMCs from an HIV-positive cohort were not significantly correlated in contrast with the HIV-negative controls. Our study provides a robust FACS protocol for the detection of the five major T lymphocyte phenotypes in SWMF which should prove useful for research with other mucosal fluids.

[Clinicopathological features of primary mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders].

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features and differential diagnosis of primary mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders (pmCD30+TLPD). Methods: Eight cases of pmCD30+TLPD diagnosed from 2013 to 2023 at the Department of Pathology, Beijing Friendship Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University and Beijing Ludaopei Hospital were retrospectively collected. The immunophenotype, EBV infection status and T-cell receptor (TCR) clonability of tumor cells were examined. The clinicopathological features were analyzed and related literatures were reviewed. Results: There were 5 females and 3 males, aged 28 to 73 years, without B symptoms, lack of trauma and autoimmune diseases. Seven cases occurred in oral mucosa and one in anal canal mucosa. Submucosal nodules with ulcerations were presented in all cases except one, which only submucosal nodule. Morphologically, there was different distribution of allotypic lymphocytes in inflammatory background. Four cases showed "kidney-shaped", "embryonic" and "horseshoe-shaped" cells, and one case resembled Hodgkin and Reed/Sternberg (HRS) cells. Allotypic lymphocytes expressed CD3 (7/8), CD4+/CD8-(7/8) and CD4-/CD8-(1/8). CD30 was uniformly strongly positive while ALK and CD56 were negative. In situ hybridization of EBER was negative in five cases (5/5). Clonal TCR gene rearrangement was positive in two cases. Four patients did not receive radiotherapy or chemotherapy. All the seven patients survived without disease except one died due to concurrent leukopenia. Conclusions: pmCD30+TLPD had a broad morphological spectrum and could be easily confused with primary cutaneous CD30+TLPD and systemic ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma involving mucosa, which may lead to misdiagnosis. Although the majority of the cases had a favorable prognosis, a few cases relapsed or progressed to lymphoma.

Association of Peri-Implant Mucosa Dimensions With Emergence Profile Angles of the Implant Prosthesis.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between prosthesis design and peri-implant mucosa dimensions and morphology. The secondary aim was to investigate associations between mucosal dimensions and the presence of mucositis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-seven patients with 103 posterior bone level implants underwent clinical and radiographic examination, including cone beam computer tomography and intraoral optical scanning. Three-dimensional models for each implant and peri-implant mucosa were constructed. Vertical mucosa height (TH), horizontal mucosa width at implant platform (TW), and 1.5 mm coronal of the platform (TW1.5), as well as mucosal emergence angle (MEA), deep angle (DA), and total contour angle (TA) were measured at six sites for each implant. RESULTS: There was a consistent correlation between peri-implant mucosa width and height (ß = 0.217, p < 0.001), with the width consistently surpassing height by a factor of 1.4-2.1. All three angles (MEA, DA, TA) were negatively associated with mucosa height (p < 0.001), while DA was negatively associated with mucosa width (TW1.5) (p < 0.001, ß = -0.02, 95% CI: -0.03, -0.01). There was a significant negative association between bleeding on probing (BoP) and mucosa width at platform (OR 0.903, 95% CI: 0.818-0.997, p = 0.043) and 1.5 coronal (OR 0.877, 95% CI: 0.778-0.989, p = 0.033). Implants with less than half sites positive for BoP (0-2/6) had significantly higher mucosa height (OR 3.51, 95% CI: 1.72-7.14, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Prosthesis design can influence the dimensions of the peri-implant mucosa, with wider emergence profile angles associated with reduced peri-implant mucosa height. In particular, a wider deep angle is associated with reduced mucosa width in posterior sites. Reduced peri-implant mucosa height and width are associated with more signs of inflammation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered in Thai Clinical Trials Registry: http://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20220204002.

Surface-Charge Tuned Polymeric Nanoemulsions for Carvacrol Delivery in Interkingdom Biofilms.

Biofilms, intricate microbial communities entrenched in extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrices, pose formidable challenges in infectious disease treatment, especially in the context of interkingdom biofilms prevalent in the oral environment. This study investigates the potential of carvacrol-loaded biodegradable nanoemulsions (NEs) with systematically varied surface charges─cationic guanidinium (GMT-NE) and anionic carboxylate (CMT-NE). Zeta potentials of +25 mV (GMT-NE) and -33 mV (CMT-NE) underscore successful nanoemulsion fabrication (∼250 nm). Fluorescent labeling and dynamic tracking across three dimensions expose GMT-NE's superior diffusion into oral biofilms, yielding a robust antimicrobial effect with 99.99% killing for both streptococcal and Candida species and marked reductions in bacterial cell viability compared to CMT-NE (∼4-log reduction). Oral mucosa tissue cultures affirm the biocompatibility of both NEs with no morphological or structural changes, showcasing their potential for combating intractable biofilm infections in oral environment. This study advances our understanding of NE surface charges and their interactions within interkingdom biofilms, providing insights crucial for addressing complex infections involving bacteria and fungi in the demanding oral context.

Association of mucoadhesive polymeric matrices and liposomes for local delivery of miconazole: A new approach for the treatment of oral candidiasis.

Since the local treatment of oral candidiasis usually requires long-term administration of the antifungal drug, an ideal dosage form should be able to maintain the drug release over an extended period, assuring an adequate concentration at the infection site. In this context, we have considered the possibility of a buccal delivery of miconazole nitrate (MN) by mucoadhesive polymeric matrices. The loading of the antifungal drug in a hydrophilic matrix was made possible by taking advantage of the amphiphilic nature of liposomes (LP). The MN-loaded LP were prepared by a thin film evaporation method followed by extrusion, while solid matrices were obtained by freeze-drying a suspension of the LP in a polymeric solution based on chitosan (CH), sodium hyaluronate (HYA), or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). MN-loaded LP measured 284.7 ± 20.1 nm with homogeneous size distribution, adequate drug encapsulation efficiency (86.0 ± 3.3 %) and positive zeta potential (+47.4 ± 3.3). CH and HYA-based formulations almost completely inhibited C. albicans growth after 24 h, even if the HYA-based one released a higher amount of the drug. The CH-based matrix also provided the best mucoadhesive capacity and therefore represents the most promising candidate for the local treatment of oral candidiasis.

A case of larva migrans representing a pitfall in oral diagnosis.

The present work reports a case of a female patient complaining of itching and painful lesions affecting the oral mucosa for 7 months. Buccal and lip mucosa showed swelling and erythema, with serpiginous tracks. The patient was diagnosed with oral larva migrans, and the lesions resolved after ivermectin administration. At 18-month follow-up, no sign of recurrence was observed. Larva migrans can represent a pitfall in oral diagnosis and a stressful condition for the patient. Oral health care providers should be aware of this and keep this disease in mind as a possible differential diagnosis in oral mucosa lesions.

Associations between the keratinized mucosa width and the underlying alveolar bone dimensions at partial edentulous molar sites: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The assessment of hard and soft tissue at edentulous sites is important for subsequent implant treatment design. The aim of the present study was to explore the associations between the keratinized mucosa width (KMW) and the underlying alveolar bone dimensions at partial edentulous molar sites. METHODS: In this retrospective study, a total of 110 patients with at least one missing molar were selected. The buccal KMW of the edentulous molar sites was evaluated. Cone-beam computed tomography scans were collected, and the height discrepancy between the alveolar crest and the buccal bone plate (HC-B) as well as the alveolar bone height (ABH) were measured. The KMW was compared among the HC-B and ABH groups at both maxillary and mandibular sites. Linear regression and generalized estimation equations (GEEs) were used to explore the associations between the KMW and alveolar bone dimensions at α = 0.05. RESULTS: Among the 110 patients, 158 edentulous molar sites were analyzed. The average HC-B and ABH were significantly lower at the maxillary sites (1.26 ± 1.62 mm, 11.62 ± 3.94 mm) than at the mandibular sites (3.67 ± 2.85 mm, 14.91 ± 3.01 mm, p < 0.001). The KMW was significantly lower at sites with HC-B > 2 mm than at sites with HC-B ≤ 2 mm both in the maxilla and mandible (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the KMW at sites with ABH < 10 mm and sites with ABH ≥ 10 mm (p > 0.05). Linear regression and GEEs analyses revealed that the HC-B was significantly associated with the KMW (B = -0.339, p < 0.001), while the association between the KMW and the ABH was not statistically significant (B = -0.046, p = 0.352). CONCLUSIONS: The buccal KMW at edentulous molar sites was significantly associated with the HC-B. Alveolar ridges presenting with a sloped configuration were more prone to possess a narrower band of keratinized mucosa. Both hard and soft tissue augmentation should be considered for implant treatment at these sites. The correlations of dynamic changes between the KMW and alveolar bone dimensions after tooth extraction should be further investigated.

Oral Mucosa and Saliva Alterations Related to Vape.

OBJECTIVES: Electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarette, pod, and vape) are currently among the tobacco consumption of adolescents and young adults. The aim is to show oral mucosa and saliva alterations related to vape. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A vape-user patient, presenting a white plaque in the posterior region of the hard palate, underwent clinical examination, sialometry, pH evaluation, and excisional biopsy of the white lesion. Molecular changes in saliva and vape liquid were analyzed by vibrational spectroscopy. RESULTS: The histopathological analyses showed hyperparakeratosis without dysplasia. Formaldehyde, ketones, and aromatic hydrocarbon species were identified in e-cig liquid by the FTIR. CONCLUSIONS: The use of vape may be related to the development of hyperkeratotic lesions in the oral mucosa as well as significantly modify the patient's salivary patterns as the vape liquid presents carcinogenic and cytotoxic components in its composition.

Xenogeneic Collagen Matrix Versus Free Gingival Graft for Augmenting Peri-Implant Keratinized Mucosa Around Dental Implants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: There is a growing evidence to suggest augmenting peri-implant keratinized mucosa in the presence of ≤ 2 mm of keratinized mucosa. However, the most appropriate surgical technique and augmentation materials have yet to be defined. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analyses was to evaluate the clinical and patient-reported outcomes of augmenting keratinized mucosa around implants using free gingival graft (FGG) versus xenogeneic collagen matrix (XCM) before commencing prosthetic implant treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Electronic databases were searched to identify observational studies comparing implant sites augmented with FGG to those augmented with XCM. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool. RESULTS: Six studies with 174 participants were included in the present review. Of these, 87 participants had FGG, whereas the remaining participants had XCM. At 6 months, sites augmented with FGG were associated with less changes in the gained width of peri-implant keratinized mucosa compared to those augmented with XCM (mean difference 1.06; 95% confidence interval -0.01 to 2.13; p = 0.05). The difference, however, was marginally significant. The difference between the two groups in changes in thickness of peri-implant keratinized mucosa at 6 months was statistically significantly in favor of FGG. On the other hand, XCM had significantly shorter surgical time, lower postoperative pain score, and higher color match compared to FGG. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitation of this review, the augmentation of keratinized mucosa using FGG before the placement of the final prosthesis may have short-term positive effects on soft tissue thickness. XCM might be considered in aesthetically demanding implant sites and where patient comfort or shorter surgical time is a priority. The evidence support, however, is of low to moderate certainty; therefore, further studies are needed to support the findings of the present review.

Frequencies of micronuclei in buccal cells and their spatial distribution in a population living in proximity to coal mining areas in southern Brazil.

The extraction and burning of coal release genotoxic pollutants, and understanding the relationship between genetic damage and the spatial distribution of residences in coal-using regions is crucial. The study aimed to conduct a spatial analysis of genotoxic damage through the of micronuclei (MNs) number and their proximity to coal mining/burning in the largest coal exploration region in Brazil. In this study, the detection of genotoxic damage was performed using the MN assay in oral cells of residents exposed to coal mining activities. Spatial analysis was conducted using QGIS 3.28.10 based on information obtained from a questionnaire administered to the population. Multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to assess the influence of the distance from residential areas to polluting sources on the number of MNs found. Additionally, Spearman's correlation was performed to identify the strength and direction of the association between the frequency of MNs and each of the polluting sources. A total of 147 MNs were quantified among all participants in the coal mining region. Notably, residents living within 2 km and 10 km of pollution sources exhibited the highest prevalence of MNs. The analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between closer proximity to pollution sources and increased MN frequency, underscoring the spatial relationship between these sources and genotoxic damage. Environmental pollutants from anthropogenic sources present a major health risk, potentially leading to irreversible damage. The spatial analysis in this study highlights the importance of targeted public policies. These policies should aim for a sustainable balance between economic development and public health, promoting effective measures to mitigate environmental impacts and protect community health.

Global analysis of DNA methylation changes during experimented lingual carcinogenesis.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the role of DNA methylation changes in tongue cancer through a comprehensive analysis of global DNA methylation alterations during experimental lingual carcinogenesis. METHODS: C57BL/6J mice were subjected to 16-week oral administration of 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO, 50 mg/L). Lingual mucosa samples, being representative of normal tissue (week 0) and early (week 12) and advanced (week 28) tumorigenesis, were harvested for microarray and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeDIP-Seq). The mRNA and promoter methylation of transforming growth factor-beta-signaling protein 1 (SMAD1) were evaluated with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Massarray in human lingual mucosa and tongue cancer cell lines. RESULTS: The cytosine guanine island (CGI) methylation level observed at 28 weeks surpassed that of both 12 weeks and 0 weeks. The promoter methylation level at 12 weeks exceeded that at 0 weeks. Notably, 208 differentially expressed genes were negatively correlated to differential methylation in promoters among 0, 12, and 28 weeks. The mRNA of SMAD1 was upregulated, concurrent with a decrease in promoter methylation levels in cell lines compared to normal mucosa. CONCLUSIONS: DNA methylation changed during lingual carcinogenesis. Overexpression of SMAD1 was correlated to promoter hypomethylation in tongue cancer cell lines.

Development of an Ex Vivo Functional Assay for Prediction of Irradiation Related Toxicity in Healthy Oral Mucosa Tissue.

Radiotherapy in the head-and-neck area is one of the main curative treatment options. However, this comes at the cost of varying levels of normal tissue toxicity, affecting up to 80% of patients. Mucositis can cause pain, weight loss and treatment delays, leading to worse outcomes and a decreased quality of life. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an approach to predicting normal mucosal responses in patients prior to treatment. We here describe an assay to detect irradiation responses in healthy oral mucosa tissue. Mucosa specimens from the oral cavity were obtained after surgical resection, cut into thin slices, irradiated and cultured for three days. Seven samples were irradiated with X-ray, and three additional samples were irradiated with both X-ray and protons. Healthy oral mucosa tissue slices maintained normal morphology and viability for three days. We measured a dose-dependent response to X-ray irradiation and compared X-ray and proton irradiation in the same mucosa sample using standardized automated image analysis. Furthermore, increased levels of inflammation-inducing factors-major drivers of mucositis development-could be detected after irradiation. This model can be utilized for investigating mechanistic aspects of mucositis development and can be developed into an assay to predict radiation-induced toxicity in normal mucosa.