Odontogenic cysts are frequent lesions of the maxillofacial region, exhibiting varied biological behaviors, ranging from slow growth to locally aggressive patterns. Recent evidence indicates that their formation and progression are associated with complex cellular and molecular mechanisms, involving inflammatory mediators, signaling pathways, and tissue remodeling processes. However, this information is still scattered in the literature. Objective: To map and synthesize the available evidence on the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of odontogenic cysts. Methods: This is a scoping review to be conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR recommendations. The search will be carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases, using controlled descriptors and free terms related to odontogenic cysts, pathogenesis, and molecular mechanisms. Studies addressing cellular, molecular, and immunohistochemical aspects of these lesions will be included. The selection of studies will be carried out in stages, and the extracted data will be organized into thematic categories. Results: It is expected that the pathogenesis of odontogenic cysts is associated with the action of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, activation of molecular signaling pathways, increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases, and intensified cell proliferation. Differences in molecular profiles between cyst types should also be observed. Conclusion: The findings should highlight the multifactorial nature of the pathogenesis of odontogenic cysts, emphasizing the interaction between inflammatory and molecular processes. Furthermore, this review will guide future research and potential therapeutic approaches.
Lôbo et al. (2026) studied this question.