Enamel Structure (enamel + structure)

Distribution by Scientific Domains


Selected Abstracts


Gene expression and dental enamel structure in developing mouse incisor

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 2 2010
Amer Sehic
Sehic A, Risnes S, Khan Q-E-S, Khuu C, Osmundsen H. Gene expression and dental enamel structure in developing mouse incisor. Eur J Oral Sci 2010; 118: 118,130. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 Eur J Oral Sci At the mouse incisor tip the initially differentiated ameloblasts produce a thin, prism-free enamel, while further apically, in the immediate adjacent segment, the enamel thickness increases and the four-layered enamel of mouse incisor is formed. Comparative gene-expression profiling was carried out on RNA isolated from these two segments of incisor tooth germs at embryonic day (E)17.5 and at postnatal days (P)0, 1, 2, and 10 using microarrays to measure messenger RNA (mRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) species present in the segments. Validation of expression data was achieved using real-time reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting. Bioinformatic data suggested enhanced cellular apoptosis in the incisal tip segment, which, together with diminished expression of the Amelx and Enam genes, may contribute to the production of the thin enamel seen in this tooth segment. For genes exhibiting higher levels of expression in the adjacent segment where complex enamel is being formed, bioinformatic analysis suggested significant associations with cellular functions involving the actin cytoskeleton, cellular development, morphology, and movement. This is suggested to reflect that ameloblasts with Tomes' process are being organized in transverse rows, facilitating the transverse movement that results in prism decussation in the inner enamel of the adjacent segment. Bioinformatic analysis of miRNA expression data lends support to these suggestions. [source]


Distribution and structure of the initial dental enamel formed in incisors of young wild-type and Tabby mice

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 6 2009
Amer Sehic
Mouse incisor enamel can be divided into four layers: an inner prism-free layer; an inner enamel with prism decussation; outer enamel with parallel prisms; and a superficial prism-free layer. We wanted to study how this complex structural organization is established in the very first enamel formed in wild-type mice and also in Tabby mice where enamel coverage varies considerably. Unworn incisors from young female wild-type and Tabby mice were ground, etched, and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. In both wild-type and Tabby mice, establishment of the enamel structural characteristics in the initially formed enamel proceeded as follows, going from the incisal tip in an apical direction: (i) a zone with prism-free enamel, (ii) a zone with occasional prisms most often inclined incisally, and (iii) a zone where prism decussation was gradually established in the inner enamel. The distribution of enamel in Tabby mice exhibited considerable variability. The sequence of initial enamel formation in mouse incisors mimics development from a primitive (prism-free) structure to an evolved structure. It is suggested that genes controlling enamel distribution are not associated with genes controlling enamel structure. The control of ameloblast configuration, life span, organization in transverse rows, and movement is important for establishing the characteristic mature pattern of mouse incisor enamel. [source]


Pits and Fissures: Etch Resistance in Prismless Enamel Walls

AUSTRALIAN DENTAL JOURNAL, Issue 4 2001
MF Burrow
Background: In a previous study to examine the nature of etching on the walls of fissures, there was a consistent result of resistance to deep etching on parts of the walls and a zone of lesser etching on part of the walls as evidenced by the uptake of stain. The staining had been used to examine the nature of the etch pattern. The aims of this study were to define the nature of this etch resistant area. Methods: A sample of 55 teeth, both molars and premolars, were divided into three groups. In the first group the wetting of fissures by the etchant was examined; the second group tested for the effects of pellicle-cuticle-debris or air entrapment on the etching process. The final group looked at alternative mechanical treatments of the fissure prior to etching. Results: The specimens split along the fissures showed clearly that the etch resistant zone was not due to lack of contact with the etchant or the presence of a pellicle-cuticle-debris covering, but to the presence of a prismless enamel structure. This study showed that this zone inhibited tag development on the fissure walls. Conclusions: The mechanical removal of this prismless layer of enamel within the fissure system should result in an improved bonding of a fissure sealant through better tag development, in turn leading to a reduction in the failure rate of a sealant used to prevent caries. [source]