Apoptosis activation in human carious dentin. An immunohistochemical study

Submitted: 24 February 2015
Accepted: 7 May 2015
Published: 9 July 2015
Abstract Views: 1357
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The exact mechanisms and enzymes involved in caries progression are largely unclear. Apoptosis plays a key role in dentin remodelling related to damage repair; however, it is unclear whether apoptosis in decayed teeth is activated through the extrinsic or the intrinsic pathway. This ex vivo immunohistochemical study explored the localization of TRAIL, DR5, Bcl-2 and Bax, the main proteins involved in apoptosis, in teeth with advanced caries. To evaluate TRAIL, DR5, Bcl-2 and Bax immunoexpressions twelve permanent carious premolars were embedded in paraffin and processed for immunohistochemistry. The results showed that TRAIL and DR5 were overexpressed in dentin and in pulp vessels and mononuclear cells; strong Bax immunostaining was detected in dilated dentinal tubules close to the lesion, and Bcl-2 staining was weak in some dentin areas under the cavity or altogether absent. These findings suggest that both apoptosis pathways are activated in dental caries. Further studies are required to gain insights into its biomolecular mechanisms. 

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C. Loreto, University of Catania
Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology
A. Psaila, University of Catania
Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology
G. Musumeci, University of Catania
Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology
S. Castorina, University of Catania
Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology
R. Leonardi, University of Catania
Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialities

How to Cite

Loreto, C., Psaila, A., Musumeci, G., Castorina, S., & Leonardi, R. (2015). Apoptosis activation in human carious dentin. An immunohistochemical study. European Journal of Histochemistry, 59(3). https://doi.org/10.4081/ejh.2015.2513