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Published on: March 31, 2021
Association between ENAM polymorphisms and dental caries in children
Darshan Devang Divakar1,2, Sultan Ali S Alanazi3, Mohammed Yahya A Assiri3
1Dental Biomaterials Research Chair, Dental Health Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia.
Genetic variations in the ENAM gene are linked to dental caries risk. Specifically, ENAM SNP rs7671281 increases susceptibility, while other SNPs may offer protection against cavities in children.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Dentistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dental enamel, the tooth's hardest tissue, is crucial for oral health.
- Enamelin (ENAM) peptides are vital for enamel formation and integrity.
- ENAM gene variations can influence enamel thickness and susceptibility to dental caries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between ENAM gene polymorphisms and the risk of developing dental caries.
- To evaluate the role of specific ENAM single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in dental caries susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- The study included 168 South Indian children with dental caries and 193 healthy controls.
- Genotyping was performed for three ENAM gene SNPs: rs7671281, rs3796704, and rs12640848.
- In silico analysis was conducted to assess the functional impact of identified SNPs.
Main Results:
- SNP rs7671281 showed a significant risk association with dental caries susceptibility (heterozygous CT, minor allele T).
- SNP rs3796704 demonstrated a significant protective association against dental caries (heterozygous GA, minor allele A).
- SNP rs12640848 also exhibited a significant protective association with dental caries (heterozygous AG, minor allele G).
- In silico analysis indicated that rs7671281 (Ile648Thr) may alter ENAM protein structure and function.
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between ENAM gene SNP rs7671281 and dental caries susceptibility in South Indian children.
- ENAM gene variants may play a role in determining an individual's risk for developing dental caries.
- Further research into ENAM gene's role in dental health is warranted.
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