A mouse model for TMJ arthritis

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD) are characterized by joint degeneration and facial pain. Most often this leads to a significant amount of disability. Histological as well as arthroscopic studies have documented that, at the early stages of the disorders, the tissues of the joint undergo a change resembling osteoarthritis. At very late stages, the joint can become inflamed and the synovitis and bone erosion can resemble an inflammatory arthritis. Unfortunately, at the present time there are no good models that can be used for the analysis of this type of joint destruction in TMJ arthridities. The discussion in this report describes the features and pathology of TMJ disorders and puts forward a potential model that may be amenable for investigation of novel treatments.