Enzymes in the in-situ pellicle of children with different caries activity

Area of Science:

• Oral biology
• Pediatric dentistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The dental pellicle, a salivary film on teeth, plays a crucial role in oral health.
• Understanding pellicle composition in children, especially those with varying caries activity, is vital for early diagnosis and prevention.
• Enzymes within the pellicle, like glucosyltransferases, are implicated in dental caries development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate enzymes, including glucosyltransferase (GTF) isoforms, within the in-situ dental pellicle of children.
• To compare enzyme activities and GTF isoform distribution between caries-free and caries-active children.
• To explore the potential of GTF D as a biomarker for caries risk in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Formation of in-situ pellicle on bovine enamel slabs attached to dental splints in children.
• Assay of amylase, lysozyme, and peroxidase activities at 3 and 30 minutes.
• Quantification of GTF B, C, and D isoforms using gold-immunolabelling and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) at 30 minutes.

Main Results:

• All investigated enzymes (amylase, lysozyme, peroxidase) were detected in an active state in the children's pellicle, with no significant activity differences between caries-free and caries-active groups.
• All GTF isoforms were present, though GTF B was detected sporadically. GTF isoforms showed random distribution within pellicle layers.
• A significantly higher concentration of Glucosyltransferase D was found in the pellicle of children with active caries compared to caries-free children.

Conclusions:

• Pellicle formation in children exhibits uniformity and selectivity.
• Glucosyltransferase D levels in the dental pellicle may serve as a potential biomarker for identifying children at high risk for dental caries.
• Further research into GTF D's role could lead to improved caries risk assessment strategies in pediatric dentistry.