University of Zurich: Genetic Defects Lead to Enamel Malformations

Enamel is the hardest organic tissue found in nature. It has a very complex structure, which is made up of minerals and enamel-specific proteins produced by tooth-exclusive cells called ameloblasts. As robust as tooth enamel is, however, it is still susceptible to damage: enamel defects are among the most common dental problems and result in, among other things, pain-sensitive teeth and an increased risk of cavities.

Focus on Adam10 molecule
A team of researchers from the Center of Dental Medicine at the University of Zurich has now for the first time identified a key gene network that is responsible for severe tooth enamel defects. Using various genetically modified mouse models, the scientists analyzed the effects of the Adam10 molecule, which is closely linked to the Notch signaling pathway. This signaling pathway enables communication between adjacent cells, is essential for embryonic development, and plays a crucial role in the development of severe human pathologies such as stroke and cancer. To study the role of the Adam10/Notch signaling in the formation and pathology of tooth enamel in detail and to analyze cellular and enamel structure modifications in teeth upon gene mutation, the researchers used state-of-the-art genetic, molecular and imaging tools.

Defects in enamel structure and mineral composition
The scientists were able to demonstrate that there is a close link between impaired Adam10/Notch function and enamel defects. “Mice carrying mutations of Adam10 have teeth with severe enamel defects,” says Thimios Mitsiadis, professor of oral biology at the Center of Dental Medicine and leader of this study. “Adam10 deletion causes disorganization of the ameloblasts, which then leads to severe defects in both the structure and mineral composition of the enamel”. Adam10-dependent Notch signaling is thus not only involved in severe pathological conditions, but also in the organization and structure of the developing tissues, such as teeth.

New avenues for prevention and therapy
According to Mitsiadis, understanding the genetic code that controls tooth development, the knowledge of the molecular connections during enamel formation, and the impact of mutations leading to enamel malformations open new horizons in the field of prevention and treatment. “The requirements for enamel repair and de novo formation are extremely complex, but new genetic and pharmaceutical tools targeting impaired tooth enamel formation will enable us to considerably improve dental care in the future.”