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Abstract The introduction of new immunosuppressive agents has improved outcomes for renal transplant recipients by decreasing the risk of rejection and by increasing the function and lifespan of the allograft.In this study we try to find out the possible effects - if any - of two of the most recently screened immunosuppressants : Sirolimus (Rapamycin, Rapamune) and Tacrolimus (prograph, FK506) in comparison with cyclosporine A on:- - The microscopic and submicroscopic structures of the gingiva, periodontal ligament and dentogingival junction. - The immunohistochemical localization of fibronectin in the above mentioned structures . Sixty healthy adult male albino rats were obtained and divided into 4 equal groups -Group І animals received Sirolimus - Group ІІ animals received Tacrolimus - Group ІІІ received animals Cyclosporine A - Group IV animals served as controls which subdivided into three subgroups IVa, IVb, IVc. received same feeding and basic solvents in comparable volume to groups and same route of administration. Gingival specimens and Jaw specimens were taken from all groups and prepared for examination. The results showed Sirolimus a high mortality rate and to have the most severe deleterious structural and ultrastructural effects on the tissues under investigation to the extent that teeth were detached and get lost. Tacrolimus proved to carry less (but still high) mortality rate and less severe structural and ultrastructural degenerative effects on the tissues under investigation. Cyclosporine A proved to cause less degenerative effects, however it is commonly associated with gingival overgrowth and marked increase in the density of the collagen fibers of the gingiva and periodontal ligament. KEY WORDS: Immunosupressive drugs, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus, cyclosporine A, gingiva and teeth. |