We have investigated the effects of WY14643, a potent peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-α (
PPAR-α) agonist, in a rat model of
ligature-induced
periodontitis. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were lightly anaesthetized with
pentobarbitone (35 mg/kg). Sterile, 2-0 black braided
silk thread was placed around the cervix of the lower left first molar and knotted medially. Animals received WY14643 (1 mg/kg i.p, daily for eight days). Eighths days after placement of the
ligature, we evaluated several markers of
inflammation such us (1)
myeloperoxidase activity, (2) a
cytokines and adhesion molecules expression, (3) NF-κB expression, (4) iNOS expression, (5) the nitration of
tyrosine residues, (6) activation of the nuclear
enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, (7) apoptosis, and (8) the degree of gingivomucosal tissues injury. Administration of WY14643 significantly decreased all of the parameters of
inflammation as described above. These results demonstrate that WY14643 exerts an anti-inflammatory role during experimental
periodontitis and is able to ameliorate the tissue damage.