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Stage-Specific Proteomic Profiles in Dental Caries.
C M P Vidal1, O Rysavy2, S Kulanthaivel1
1Department of Operative Dentistry, The University of Iowa, College of Dentistry, Iowa City, IA, USA.
Journal of Dental Research
|November 27, 2025
Summary
This study reveals distinct protein changes in teeth affected by dental caries at different stages. These proteomic signatures highlight the body's immune response and tissue repair processes during caries progression.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Dental Research
Background:
- Dental caries is a complex disease involving microbial challenges and host responses.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of caries progression is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the proteomic differences between sound and carious dentin at various stages of lesion progression.
- To identify molecular signatures associated with host response, including degradation, inflammation, and repair.
Main Methods:
- Proteomic analysis of dentin from human molars using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
- Differential protein expression analysis using label-free quantification and statistical methods.
- Pathway analysis to identify key biological processes and networks involved.
Main Results:
- Identified 320 proteins with significant differential expression between sound and carious dentin.
- Upregulation of immune-related proteins (e.g., S100A8, S100A12) in advanced caries.
- Distinct proteomic profiles observed between different demineralization extraction methods.
Conclusions:
- Dental caries exhibits stage-specific proteomic signatures reflecting a dynamic host-pathogen interaction.
- Findings provide molecular insights into caries pathophysiology, potentially informing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
