Evaluation of AQP5 in Hypomineralized Teeth in Comparison to Normal Teeth: A Cross-sectional Study

To quantitatively evaluate aquaporin 5 (AQP5) levels in the saliva of children with molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) and compare them with those having normally mineralized teeth with dental caries and normally mineralized teeth. Also, to check the role of socioeconomic status (SES) in the incidence pattern.

A total of 75 children aged 6-12 years from Chennai, India, were divided equally into three groups: MIH, normally mineralized teeth with dental caries, and normally mineralized teeth. Saliva samples were collected using the passive pooling and analyzed for AQP5 levels using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Data were recorded and analyzed with SPSS software.

Aquaporin 5 levels in children with MIH were (0.808 ± 0.997 ng/mL), followed by those with normally mineralized teeth with dental caries (1.252 ± 0.2468 ng/mL) and normally mineralized teeth without dental caries (2.056 ± 0.3489 ng/mL). On intergroup comparison among groups A and B, A and C, and B and C were statistically significant (p < 0.0001). SES showed a significant correlation with the prevalence of MIH and dental caries, with MIH being more common in lower-income groups.

Molar incisor hypomineralization and dental caries are multifactorial conditions impacting children's oral health. Future research should explore how crystallization of the enamel matrix affects them. Gene polymorphisms of AQP5, along with other genes, should be assessed to improve diagnostic approaches.

Subramani S, Sekar R, Bottu K, et al. Evaluation of AQP5 in Hypomineralized Teeth in Comparison to Normal Teeth: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(12):1478-1482.