Immunohistochemical analysis of c-x-c chemokine receptor type 4 in odontogenic keratocysts and dentigerous cysts

ObjectivesTo evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) in odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) and dentigerous cysts (DCs).Study DesignThe percentages (cytoplasmic and nuclear) of CXCR4-positive cells in the epithelial lining and fibrous capsule of 15 OKCs and 15 DCs were assessed. The results were analyzed statistically using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and Spearman correlation test.ResultsCytoplasmic and nuclear expressions of CXCR4 were observed in all cases of OKCs and DCs. Lower cytoplasmic expression of this chemokine receptor was found in the epithelial lining and fibrous capsule of OKCs compared to DCs (P < .005). Analysis of nuclear immunoexpression of CXCR4 revealed lower percentages of positive cells in the fibrous capsule of OKCs compared to DCs (P = .003). In the epithelial lining of DCs, a positive correlation was observed between cytoplasmic and nuclear expression of CXCR4 (P = .034). In the fibrous capsule of OKCs and DCs, cytoplasmic and nuclear expressions of CXCR4 were positively correlated (P < .005).ConclusionsThe results suggest a potential role of CXCR4 in the pathogenesis of OKCs and DCs. This chemokine receptor may be more important for the development of odontogenic cysts with less aggressive biological behavior.