What Impact Does a Genetic Mutation Have on Tooth Enamel?
A recent study has found that mutations in a certain molecule – ADAM10 – results in damage to the enamel of teeth in mice. It is believed that such results would be the same for human teeth. Defects in enamel greatly increase the chances of cavities forming. Therefore, this research could help researchers to find new ways of preventing enamel problems, which would benefit wider oral healthcare.
A recent study has concluded that mutations in a certain molecule – named ADAM10 – results in damage to both the structure and mineral composition of tooth enamel in mice [1].
The team of researchers were able to pinpoint a gene network that is responsible for and connected to tooth enamel defects. This could in the future help those who are at risk of enamel defects.
While we cannot be sure that it would be the same result on human enamel, it is believed that it would have similar results. Therefore, this is a concerning topic.
Background
Enamel is something that is truly impressive. It is the hardest organic tissue in nature. Without enamel, our teeth wouldn’t function in the same way.
But enamel is a complex tissue. It is made up of minerals and ameloblasts, the latter of which are specific proteins of tooth-exclusive cells.
While enamel is very strong, it is still vulnerable to damage. Enamel defects represent a common problem. Typical defects include Fluorosis and Enamel Hypoplasia. Damage to the enamel often results in sensitive teeth, an increased risk of cavities, and general pain [2].
The Research
The study was completed by a research team at the Center of Dental Medicine at the University of Zurich, Switzerland [1]. Subsequently, their findings were published in the iScience journal [1].
To compile their research, the team combined genetic, molecular and imaging techniques [1]. This would allow the research team to analyze structural modifications to enamel structure, which was key to this research.
To begin with, the team used various mouse models that had been genetically modified. They had been modified to have the ADAM10 molecule deactivated [1]. Some control mice were used, which were unmodified.
The ADAM10 molecule is connected to a signaling pathway. This signaling pathway has an important role, with it allowing communication between adjacent cells to take place [1]. This is crucial for the development of the human body.
The researchers performed some tests on the mice, and observed the impact on tooth enamel. The tests were designed to target enamel. This would allow the researchers to see the effect ADAM10 had on the two groups.
The research team found that when ADAM10 was deactivated, enamel defects followed in the mice [1]. Moreover, the enamel was unaffected in the mice whose ADAM10 molecule was unchanged.
Therefore, the research team were able to identify the importance of the ADAM10 molecule. When ADAM10 was impaired, disorganisation of ameloblasts followed [1]. Subsequently, this resulted in defects in the structure and mineral composition of the enamel, resulting in damage to the teeth [1].
What the results mean
It isn’t entirely known if humans would react in the same way, However, mice and human teeth are closely related, meaning it is likely that humans would respond in the same way.
If the findings are relevant to humans, then it shows what can happen when enamel defects are present. It can have worrying results, with enamel defects linked to a range of issues.
Thimios Mitsiadis is a Professor in Oral Biology at the University of Zurich [3]. He commented on the findings, confirming that “mice carrying mutations of ADAM10 have teeth with severe enamel defects”, and that his team had been able to demonstrate a close link between an impaired ADAM10 molecule and enamel defects [3].
This research helps scientists to understand the genetic code that impacts tooth development [3]. Mitsiadis believes these results are exciting, saying that despite enamel repair being ‘”extremely complex”, such results could help the team to “considerably improve dental care” relating to tooth enamel formation [3]. The team clearly believe these findings will have an excellent long-term impact.
Thinking points…
1) While enamel defects don’t affect everyone, enamel wearing away can happen to any of us. Enamel wearing away leads to increased sensitivity, pain, and tooth discoloration. The best way of protecting our enamel is to brush our teeth frequently, and try and limit intake of sugary food and drink, tobacco and alcohol. Moreover, attending regular dental appointments is also important, as your overall oral health can be looked into. We recommend booking an appointment soon!
2) Do you have any children? If so, this article should be of particular interest to you. Many enamel defects can take place when a child’s teeth are growing. Therefore, it is very important to take extra care of your child’s oral health as they grow up. We recommend monitoring their brushing, and taking them to dental check-ups when necessary.
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary Dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.
It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any issues can be identified at check-ups. If further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs. Early detection helps to prevent the problem getting worse.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] Mitsiadis, T. A., Jiminez-Rojo, L., Balic, A., Weber, S., Satfig, P., & Pagella, P. (2022). Adam10-dependent Notch signaling establishes dental epithelial cell boundaries required for enamel formation. iScience. 25 (10): 105154. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2022.105154.
[2] Cantu, C., Pagella, P., Shajiel, T. D., Zimmerli, D., Valenta, T., Hausman, G., Basler, K., & Mitsiadis, T. A. (2017). A cytoplasmic role of Wnt/β-catenin transcriptional cofactors Bcl9, Bcl9l, and Pygopus in tooth enamel formation. Science Signaling. 10 (465). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/scisignal.aah4598.
[3] University of Zurich. (2022). Genetic defects lead to enamel malformations. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-09-genetic-defects-enamel-malformations.html. Last accessed: 1st October 2022.