Cellular and Microenvironmental Regulation in Temporomandibular Joint Homeostasis, Degeneration, and Regeneration

This Research Topic will focus on the integrated mechanisms that govern temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health and repair, with an emphasis on how cellular behaviour and signalling pathways are shaped by the joint microenvironment. Rather than examining individual tissue components in isolation, the collection will highlight how the joint environment functions as a coordinated whole.The topic will also explore how microenvironmental changes contribute to TMJ pathology, including inflammatory remodelling, extracellular matrix dysregulation, degenerative progression, and the development and maintenance of chronic pain. We aim to bring together mechanistic and translational insights that connect microenvironmental regulation to both homeostasis and clinically relevant disease trajectories, including the identification of pathology-relevant molecular signatures and potential biomarkers.Areas covered include, but are not limited to:Molecular, cellular and developmental mechanisms regulating TMJ homeostasis and regenerationMechanosensing and mechanotransduction pathways within the TMJ microenvironmentThe role of the synovium in governing joint balance and inflammatory responsesExtracellular matrix dysregulation and degenerative progression in TMJ pathologyImmune-stromal interactions in TMJ degeneration, tissue remodelling, and chronic painNeurobiological mechanisms of temporomandibular disorders, including peripheral sensitisation and nociceptive signallingPathology-relevant molecular signatures and potential biomarkersTranslational strategies targeting cellular and microenvironmental regulationStem and progenitor cell dynamics in TMJ tissue maintenance, injury response, and regenerative repair Topic editors: Zhangbiao Long, Dongdong Fang Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83031/cellular-and-microenvironmental-regulation-in-temporomandibular-joint-homeostasis-degeneration-and-regeneration