Piezo1 ion channel: a core target for mechanotransduction in orthodontic alveolar bone remodeling

Physiological tooth movement during the process of orofacial rehabilitation, as well as the degree of skeletal responses to orthodontics procedures, depends on the bone remodeling processes that are controlled by the mechanosensitive receptors. Piezo1 has become one of the receptors of great attention over the last few years. Besides acting as a sensor of the mechanical microenvironment, Piezo1 is also important in alveolar bone remodeling because of its ability to regulate osteocyte activity. This is a review of how Piezo1 mediates orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) by detecting and transducing mechanical stimulating factors using various molecular pathways and by regulating the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Most recent research developments are summarized with the aim of determining the impact of Piezo1 channel inhibition on orthodontic tooth movement as well as elucidating the molecular pathways involved in the same. Additionally, the prospective clinical use of Piezo1 as a therapeutic target of orthodontic therapy is discussed. We also highlight the importance of Piezo1 in regulating bone formation and maintaining the balance between osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. In general, the results can be used to optimize the method of providing orthodontic treatment and develop new strategies in the field of orthodontics.