Characterization of the temporomandibular joint of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in health and disease

This study aimed to characterize the histological, biomechanical and biochemical properties of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of the gray wolf (Canis lupus). We also sought to discern the structure-function relationships of the TMJ disc and identify and describe joint pathology that may be found naturally in the wolf. TMJs (n = 22) of fresh cadaver heads (n = 11) of wild gray wolves were examined grossly and microscopically. Two skulls underwent cone beam computed tomography (one male and one female) to assess spatial detail and orientation. The TMJ discs were evaluated for their biomechanical and biochemical properties. One wolf had gross erosive changes of the mandibular head articular surface. Six of 11 wolves had articular surface changes including fibrillation and fissuring seen histologically, and six of 11 wolves had subchondral bone sclerosis. All TMJ discs appeared healthy and without gross or histological pathology. Anisotropy of tensile properties was identified with uniaxial tensile testing. Specifically, in the mediolateral direction, the discs were significantly stiffer caudally than centrally by 2.3times, and strain at failure in the mediolateral direction was significantly lower centrally than rostrally. Under 10 % strain, compressive stress-relaxation testing identified a significantly higher coefficient of viscosity in the central region of the disc than in the caudal region. Biochemical analysis revealed a high collagen content and a low glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content. GAG per dry weight (DW) was highest centrally and collagen per DW content was significantly lower caudally when compared with the rostral and central regions. The TMJ of the gray wolf had similarities and differences with regard to structure-function relationships compared with other mammals. The TMJ articular surfaces had changes reported in other species and with similar frequency to the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris), but with less severe degenerative changes and without pathology of the TMJ disc as reported in other species.