New paradigms on the transport functions of maturation-stage ameloblasts

J Dent Res. 2013 Feb;92(2):122-9. doi: 10.1177/0022034512470954. Epub 2012 Dec 14.

Abstract

Fully matured dental enamel is an architecturally and mechanically complex hydroxyapatite-based bioceramic devoid of most of the organic material that was essential in its making. Enamel formation is a staged process principally involving secretory and maturation stages, each associated with major changes in gene expression and cellular function. Cellular activities that define the maturation stage of amelogenesis include ion (e.g., calcium and phosphate) transport and storage, control of intracellular and extracellular pH (e.g., bicarbonate and hydrogen ion movements), and endocytosis. Recent studies on rodent amelogenesis have identified a multitude of gene products that appear to be linked to these cellular activities. This review describes the main cellular activities of these genes during the maturation stage of amelogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ameloblasts / physiology*
  • Amelogenesis / genetics
  • Amelogenesis / physiology*
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Endocytosis / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation / genetics
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Ion Transport / physiology
  • Phosphates / metabolism

Substances

  • Phosphates
  • Calcium