Comparative analysis of nerve fibers, PIEZO family and bone structural parameters difference surrounding dental implants.

BACKGROUND: Nerve fibers embedded within bone tissue play a pivotal role in regulating osseous homeostasis. Emerging evidence indicates the presence of neural networks surrounding dental implants. The functional integrity of these nerve fibers is maintained through various ion channels, particularly those belonging to the PIEZO family. This study aims to: (1) characterize the spatial distribution patterns of nerve fibers and PIEZO family around dental implants, and (2) investigate their potential correlations with bone microarchitecture surrounding dental implants. METHODS: Male rat models with right maxillary first molar dental implants were established. Following a 4-week osseointegration period, spatial variations in nerve fiber density and PIEZO family expression were quantitatively assessed across 8 anatomically defined buccolingual regions. Complementary Micro-CT analyses were performed to evaluate three-dimensional bone microarchitecture surrounding dental implants. RESULTS: The study revealed regional heterogeneity in nerve fiber density across the 4 anatomical zones. Nerve fiber density showed no significant difference between peri-implant and adjacent tissues. While PIEZO-positive fibers generally mirrored overall nerve fiber distribution, the apical region exhibited a significantly higher proportion of PIEZO2-positive fibers in peri-implant bone versus adjacent bone. CONCLUSIONS: Peri-implant regions exhibited higher nerve fiber density and enhanced bone microarchitecture, suggesting neurogenic modulation of osseointegration dynamics. Mechanistically, the PIEZO family may mediate this neuro-osseous crosstalk during bone remodeling around implants. These findings offer novel perspectives on the mechanistic basis of peri-implant bone adaptation.