In vivo effects of geranylgeraniol on the development of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws.

BACKGROUND: Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) is a complication of the bisphosphonate (BP) treatment and its pathopysiology is still not fully understood. The existing preventive and treatment options require updates and more attention. Geranylgeraniol (GGOH) so far demonstrated an increased activity and viability of the cells previously treated with zoledronic acid (ZA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo effects of GGOH on the development of BRONJ.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 male Wistar rats were included in the study, divided into three groups: two experimental groups (EG1 and EG2) and a control group (CG). Rats from EG1 and EG2 were treated with 0,06 mg/kg ZA ip weekly in a duration of five weeks, while CG received saline ip. On the third week all animals underwent extraction of the lower right first molars. The rats from EG2 received a local solution of GGOH in concentration of 5 mM in the socket every day after the tooth extraction. The analyses included clinical evaluation on the wound healing and pathohistological evaluation for presence and level of osteonecrosis.

RESULTS: EG2 showed significantly improved wound healing and tissue proliferation, when compared to EG1. EG2 significantly differed from EG1 and CG (p<0,05) for the presence of microscopical osteonecrosis (80% vs 22,2% vs 0%). Regarding to the number of empty lacunes without osteocytes and the level of necrosis, all groups demonstrated significant differences.

CONCLUSION: Geranylgeraniol in a form of local solution may be a promising option for prevention and treatment of BRONJ.