Anti-inflammatory effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester supplementation on TNF-α and NF-κB expressions throughout experimental tooth movement in vivo

Context: Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) changes the periodontal tissue and increases the incidence of root resorption (OIRR). Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chemical generated from honey propolis, might be useful in controlling inflammation during OTM and so reducing the risk of OIRR. Aims: To evaluate if CAPE supplementation has an anti-inflammatory impact on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB) during experimental OTM in male Wistar rats (Rattus novergicus). Methods: Forty-eight healthy male Wistar rats were divided into positive control group (OTM 10 g/mm² force application) and experimental group (OTM application and CAPE administration). Each groups were observed for 3, 7, 14 days. A nickel-titanium closed coil spring that was 8.0 mm long, thick was inserted between the upper left first molar and upper central incisor in order to move the molar mesially. A 20 mg/kg body weight dose of CAPE was taken orally. Using immunohistochemistry, the expression of TNF-α and NF-κB was examined on the compression side of the OTM. Both the Tukey's honest significant difference test and the one-way analysis of variance test were applied (p<0.05). Results: TNF-α and NF-κB expression in the compression side differed considerably across groups (p<0.05). Daily administration of CAPE significantly downregulates TNF-α and NF-κB expression on the compression side. Conclusions: Administration of CAPE throughout OTM can successfully reduce the number of TNF-α and NF-κB expressions in the compression side in vivo.