The Effect of Genetics on Caries Risk Assessment: MMP3 (rs679620) and VDR (rs731236) Gene Polymorphisms
Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry
|July 3, 2026
Summary
The MMP3 gene polymorphism significantly impacts dental caries risk, improving caries risk models. The VDR gene polymorphism showed no significant effect on caries risk in this study.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Oral Health
- Dental Caries Research
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Dental caries remains a significant public health concern.
- Understanding genetic predispositions can refine risk assessment.
- Previous studies suggest a role for genetic factors in caries susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the influence of VDR and MMP3 gene polymorphisms on dental caries.
- To assess the efficacy of incorporating genetic factors into a caries risk model.
Main Methods:
- Oral examinations and DMFT index scoring for high (DMFT ≥ 14) and low (DMFT ≤ 5) caries risk groups (n=162).
- Measurement of periodontal indices, saliva buffering capacity (BC), and salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans (SM) and Lactobacillus spp. (LB).
- Genotyping of MMP3 (rs679620) and VDR (rs731236) using real-time PCR, followed by stepwise regression analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant differences observed between high and low caries risk groups in plaque index, gingival index, salivary flow rate, BC, LB levels, and lifestyle factors.
- MMP3 rs679620 polymorphism significantly influenced caries risk (p<0.001).
- A regression model incorporating genetic factors explained 61.1% of DMFT variability.
Conclusions:
- The MMP3 gene polymorphism is a significant determinant of caries risk.
- Integrating genetic markers like MMP3 can substantially enhance the predictive accuracy of caries risk models.
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