Progress in the regulatory mechanisms of mandibular condylar development and deformity

Abstract

The temporomandibular joint is the only joint structure within the craniofacial skeletal system, responsible for performing functions related to opening and closing mouth movements, such as chewing, speaking, and facial expression in daily life. The condyle of the mandible, as a vital component of the temporomandibular joint, originates from the mandibular process formed by the first gill arch and is the key growth center at the end of the mandibular ramus. Condyle is composed of a layer of cartilage as its surface and subchondral bone below, exhibiting unique biological processes during its growth and development. In the articular fossa, the functional movement of the condyle depends on its normal physiological and anatomical structure, which plays a crucial role in establishing occlusion and shaping facial features. Abnormal growth and development can lead to the occurrence of condylar deformities, which affect the vertical height of the patient's maxillofacial region and ultimately lead to secondary skeletal class Ⅱ or Ⅲ craniofacial deformities. During the process of growth and development, the condyle is subject to complex signal regulation. In recent years, with in-depth research on the temporomandibular joint, researchers have begun to discuss the regulatory mechanisms of condyle growth and development from the perspectives of gene expression and molecular level, in order to explain the causes of temporomandibular joint diseases and condylar deformities. This article provides a review on the growth process and structure of condyle, classification and pathological manifestations of condylar deformities, and related regulatory mechanisms of the growth and development of condyle, as well as pathogenesis of condylar deformities. The aim of this article is to provide research ideas for temporomandibular joint diseases and craniofacial malformations caused by abnormal development of the mandibular condyle in clinical practice.

Keywords

• condyle
• growth and development
• deformity
• regulatory mechanism
• bone remodeling