Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 regulates expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and osteopontin after tooth extraction

Abstract Background The present study aimed to investigate the expression of stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) after tooth extraction in rats and its regulatory effect on the expression of osteopontin (OPN) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Methods The first mandibular molar of the rats on the left was extracted, the histopathological changes of the extraction sockets were observed, and the SDF‐1 protein and mRNA expression were measured at 0, 1, 4, 7, 10, and 14 days. Furthermore, we used AMD3100 to block SDF‐1/CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) signaling, and the expression changes of SDF‐1, OPN, and VEGF were observed. Results At 1 day, the socket was filled with a blood clot. At 4 days, the granulation tissues were formed at the socket. At 7 days, the extraction socket was filled with mature fibrous connective tissue. At 10 days, a large amount of new trabecular bone was regenerated. At 14 days, the newly formed socket bone underwent remodeling. The expression level of SDF‐1 began to increase on the first day after tooth extraction and then peaked at 4 days. Then, SDF‐1 expression gradually declined and finally returned to the baseline level at 14 days. Moreover, the application of AMD3100 decreased the secretion of OPN and VEGF, both at protein and mRNA levels. Conclusions The expression of SDF‐1 increased first and then decreased after tooth extraction. SDF‐1 may play a regulatory role in the expression of OPN and VEGF. Plain Language Summary Tooth extraction is one of the most common operations that cause oral tissue defects and tooth loss. The healing of the tooth extraction wound affects the results of the later denture restoration and implant surgery. In this study, the expression of stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) increased first and then decreased after tooth extraction. It was found that after blocking the SDF‐1 signaling pathway, the expression levels of osteopontin (OPN) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) decreased correspondingly. While OPN was a marker of bone maturation, VEGF could promote angiogenesis and thus tissue repair. In conclusion, SDF‐1 may be involved in the process of tissue damage repair by regulating the expression of OPN and VEGF.