Is there more to enamel matrix proteins than biomineralization?
Enamel proteins are proteins synthesized by ameloblast cells. These proteins are secreted into the enamel extracellular matrix where they nucleate and regulate the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals to form the mineralized enamel covering the crown of the teeth. Although the exact role of these proteins in enamel mineralization is just beginning to be elucidated, new studies suggest that these proteins might have functions outside enamel formation. Furthermore, extracts of enamel proteins are currently being used to regenerate periodontal tissues destroyed by periodontal disease and new studies suggest that they might have chondrogenic and osteogenic properties. These new functions of enamel proteins will be the focus of this review.
Zeichner-David
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University of Southern California School of Dentistry, Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, 2250 Alcazar Street, CSA 106, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA. zeichner@hsc.usc.edu
D000818:Animals; D003746:Dental Enamel Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D008903:Minerals / Q000378:metabolism; D010519:Periodontium / Q000502:physiology*; D012038:Regeneration / Q000502:physiology*; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000378:metabolism
D003746:Dental Enamel Proteins; D006133:Growth Substances; D008903:Minerals; C109069:enamel matrix proteins