Immunohistochemical Localization of Versican, Link Protein and Hyaluronic Acid Binding Protein in the Human Periodontal Ligament

The purpose of the present study was to histopathologically and immunohistochemically investigate the distribution of proteoglycans in human periodontal ligament (PDL). Specimens from osteotomy and tooth extraction having healthy PDL were studied. Histologically, PDL consisted of fibrous tissues, involving a compact arrangement area and edematous or myxoid area. Immuno-histochemically, versican binding region (12C5), versican link protein (8A4) and biotinylated hyaluronic acid binding protein (B-HABP) were distributed in PDL. In addition, positive immunore-activity for 12C5 and 8A4 was stronger in the compact arrangement area than in the edematous or myxoid area. Reactivity for B-HABP was stronger in the edematous or myxoid area than in the compact fibrous area. These results suggest that versican and link protein are associated with fibrous tissues, whereas hyaluronic acid is related to the formation of edematous and/or myxoid tissue in human PDL. These substances may play a role in periodontal homeostasis by protecting against mechanical stress.