Genetic Variations Linked to Caries and Gum Disease

Filed in archive Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics on May 2, 2010

© robtxgal

Dental school researchers have found out that certain genetic variations may be linked to higher rates of tooth decay and aggressive periodontitis. Apparently, the rate of dental caries was influenced by individual variations, or polymorphisms, in a gene called beta defensin 1 (DEFB1), which plays a key role in the first-line immune response against invading germs.

For the study, the researchers analyzed nearly 300 dental records and accompanying saliva samples, and assigned each case a DMFT score based on the presence of decayed teeth, missing teeth due to caries, and tooth fillings, as well as a DMFS score, based on decayed teeth, missing teeth, and filled surface of a tooth. In general, individuals with fewer caries have lower DMFT and DMFS scores.

Saliva samples contained one of three variants designated as G-20A, G-52A and C-44G, of the DEFB1 gene. Individuals who carried a G-20A copy had DMFT and DMFS scores that were five-times higher than for people who had other variants. The G-52A polymorphism was associated with lower DMFT scores.


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