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Inheritance pattern and elemental composition of enamel affected by hypomaturation amelogenesis imperfecta
R C Shore1, B Bäckman, S J Brookes
1Division of Oral Biology, Leeds Dental Institute, Clarendon Way, Leeds LS2 9LU, UK. R.C.Shore@leeds.ac.uk
Connective Tissue Research
|December 20, 2002
Summary
Hypomaturation amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) shows a common microscopic defect across different inheritance patterns. This enamel defect is characterized by increased carbon, possibly indicating higher lipid content.
Area of Science:
- Dental Enamel Research
- Biomineralization Studies
- Genetic Disorders
Background:
- Hypomaturation amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) presents as hypomineralized, mottled enamel that easily separates from dentin.
- AI exhibits diverse inheritance patterns, including autosomal dominant, recessive, X-linked, and sporadic forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the elemental composition of enamel in hypomaturation AI patients from families with varied inheritance patterns.
- To identify common microscopic phenotypes in AI, regardless of the genetic basis.
Main Methods:
- Microradiography and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were used on tooth sections.
- Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyzed elemental composition within affected enamel areas.
Main Results:
- SEM revealed amorphous material obscuring enamel prisms and crystals in affected regions.
- EDX analysis showed a significant increase (up to fivefold) in carbon content within affected areas.
- Elevated nitrogen or oxygen levels were detected in some samples, suggesting potential retained protein or lipids.
Conclusions:
- Despite varying inheritance patterns, hypomaturation AI shares a common microscopic enamel defect.
- The increased carbon content points to a possible increase in lipid content within the hypomineralized enamel.
- Elevated nitrogen may indicate the presence of retained proteins in the affected enamel structure.