The role of Type VI collagen in alveolar bone

In this study, an α2(VI) deficient mouse (Col6α2-KO) model was used to examine the role of Type VI collagen in oral tissues. To examine bone properties, µCT was employed, and bone volume and bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in oral tissues. To further investigate its molecular basis, proteome analysis was performed using protein extracted from alveolar bone. In addition, alveolar bone loss progression was evaluated with a periodontitis induced model. µCT analysis showed the Col6α2- KO mice had less volume of alveolar bone, dentin and dental pulp, while the width of periodontal ligament (PDL) was greater than WT. The BMD in alveolar bone and dentin were elevated in Col6α2-KO mice compared with WT. Our proteome analysis showed significant changes in proteins related to ECM organization and elevation of proteins associated with biomineralization in the Col6α2-KO mice. In induced periodontitis, Col6α2-KO mice had greater alveolar bone loss compared to WT. In conclusion, Type VI collagen has role in controlling biomineralization in alveolar bone and that changes in the ECM of alveolar bone could be associated with greater bone loss from periodontitis.