Epithelial - Mesenchymal Interactions in Tooth Development and the Significant Role of Growth Factors and Genes with Emphasis on Mesenchyme - A Review

Abstract

The recent advancements in medical research field mainly highlights the genetic and molecular aspects of various disease processes and related treatment options, in a specialized "custom-made" approach. The medical and dental field has made tremendous progress in providing even with the smallest insight into pathological entities, thus, making patient management more fruitful. But, short comings have occurred in dental treatments involving odontogenic lesions mainly due to poor understanding of the developmental cycle involved during early stages of developmental process. Multiple numbers of interactions take place during embryo formation and further proliferation of tissue. One such important step is the interaction between epithelium and mesenchyme which tantamount to functional requirements of an individual tooth. The role of extra cellular molecules and genes has to be studied in depth to assess the impact and significance attached to it as the synergistic function of various elements underlines the complex process of development.

Keywords: Metalloproteases; Neuroectodermal odontogenesis; Organogenesis; Primordia.

[Table/Fig-2]:

Branchial arch formation and tooth development.