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Cysteine cathepsins in human carious dentin
F D Nascimento1, C L Minciotti, S Geraldeli
1Grupo de Estudos em Odontologia, Universidade Bandeirante de São Paulo, Brazil.
Journal of Dental Research
|January 21, 2011
Summary
Cysteine cathepsins, alongside matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), are key enzymes in human dental caries. This study found increased cathepsin B in carious dentin, highlighting their role in active and deep cavities.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Dental Research
- Enzymology
Background:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in dentinal caries.
- Emerging evidence suggests cysteine cathepsins also degrade collagen in human dentin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence, origin, and activity of cysteine cathepsins in human dental caries.
- To compare cathepsin and MMP activity in different types of caries lesions and their progression.
Main Methods:
- Immunostaining was used to detect cathepsin B.
- Spectrofluorometry analyzed cysteine cathepsin and MMP activities in saliva and dentin samples from caries lesions.
- Activity was correlated with lesion depth and patient age.
Main Results:
- Cathepsin B was more abundant in carious dentin compared to healthy dentin.
- Cysteine cathepsin activity increased with depth and age in chronic lesions, but decreased with age in active lesions.
- MMP activity generally decreased with age in both lesion types. Salivary MMP levels correlated with lesion activity and depth.
Conclusions:
- Cysteine cathepsins are present and active in human dental caries.
- These enzymes play a significant role, particularly in active and deep caries, alongside MMPs.
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