Why does enamel in Klk4-null mice break above the dentino-enamel junction?

ABSTRACT:

Background

The enamel layerof kallikrein 4 (Klk4)-null mice has a normal thickness and a decussating pattern of enamel rods, but it contains residual enamel proteins, is less highly mineralized, and fractures in its deepest part just above the dentino-enamel junction (DEJ). The plane of fracture is puzzling because the deepest enamel is deposited earliest and, through the action of the secretory stage enamel protease (Mmp20), is the most mature part of the enamel layer at the time of the onset of Klk4 expression.

Objectives

To characterize the planes of fracture in Mmp20- and Klk4-null mice and to localize Klk4 expression in developing teeth.

Methods

Klk4- and Mmp20-null mice were sacrificed at 7 weeks and their mandibular incisors were characterized by scanning elect

SUBMITTER: Simmer JP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3178080 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature