Effects of interferon-gamma on bone remodeling during experimental tooth movement

Objective: To determine the effects of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) on bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement. Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly categorized into five groups. IFN-gamma was administered in three different doses (0.01, 0.02, and 0.05 mu g/20 mu L) and the remaining two groups served as control. Mandibular first molars were moved mesially by means of Ni-Ti closed coil springs in all groups. The results were evaluated histomorphometrically, and parameters of trabecular bone volume (BV/TV), trabecular bone number Tr.N), and trabecular separation (Tr.Sep) were observed at the interradicular bone area of the mandibular first molars. Results: Increases in BV/TV and Tr.N and decreases in Tr.Sep revealed the anti osteoclastic activity of IFN-gamma. Conclusion: IFN-gamma administration may be useful clinically for anchorage control.