Development of the temporomandibular joint in miniature pig embryos. (27th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xiang, Lei; Wang, Xuewen; Li, Yongfeng; Liu, Hua Wei; Zhang, Xianhua; Mu, Xiaodan; Liu, Changkui; Hu, Min
• Is Part Of: Journal of morphology. Volume 283:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 143
• Publication Date: 2021-11-27
• Subjects: embryonic development -- histology -- miniature pig -- temporomandibular joint; Morphology -- Periodicals; Physiology -- Periodicals; Anatomy -- Periodicals; 571.3
• DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21432
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0362-2525

Abstract

Abstract: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a synovial joint involved in sliding and hinge movements of lower jaw in mammals. Studies on TMJ development in embryos have been mainly performed using rodents. However, the TMJ structure in rodents differs in several aspects from that in humans. There are few studies on the embryonic development of TMJ in large mammals. In the present study, we investigated the embryonic developmental characteristics of the TMJ in pigs histologically. Embryonic day 35 (E35), E45, E55, E75, E90, and postnatal day 1(P1) embryos/fetuses from the pigs were used for the study. The results showed condensation of mesenchymal cells on E35. The inferior articular cavity was formed on E45, together with a narrow crack in the superior articular cavity region. The superior and inferior articular cavities and articular disc of the TMJ were completely formed on E55. On E75, the condyle showed an obvious conical shape and the superior and inferior joint cavities were enlarged. Furthermore, the mandibular ramus and mandibular body under the neck of the condyle were ossified from E75 to P1 day. The chondrocyte layer of the condyle was significantly thinner from E75 to P1. It is speculated that the spatiotemporal development of the TMJ in miniature pig embryos is similar to that in humans. Embryonic development of the pig TMJ is an important bridge for translating the results of rodent research to medical applications. Abstract : The anatomical structure of the temporomandibular joint of pigs is similar to that of humans. In this study, the spatio‐temporal development characteristics of TMJ development such as the initial time of joint development, the formation of condyle, articular disc and articular cavity in miniature pig embryos were observed.