Amelogenin is a cell adhesion protein
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Updated: Sep 30, 2026

Analyzing Cell Surface Adhesion Remodeling in Response to Mechanical Tension Using Magnetic Beads
Published on: March 8, 2017
A M Hoang1, R J Klebe, B Steffensen
1Department of Periodontics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78229, USA.
Abstract:
Amelogenin, the major protein component of tooth enamel, is shown to be a cell adhesion protein. Since it had been shown that an amelogenin-containing preparation, Emdogain, possessed cell-adhesive activity, we tested the hypothesis that amelogenin was responsible for cell-adhesive activity. Recombinant amelogenin was found to promote adhesion at less than 15 micro g/60-mm plate and requires divalent cations for activity. While we found that amelogenin does not bind to collagen or heparin under physiological conditions, it was demonstrated previously that amelogenin does bind to hydroxyapatite. The cell-adhesive activity of amelogenin may play a role in development and may provide a partial explanation for the therapeutic effects of Emdogain in periodontal regeneration.
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