Dentinal plasma proteins

Dentinal plasma proteins refer to a collection of blood-derived proteins, primarily albumin, immunoglobulins, and fibrinogen, that reside within the fluid-filled dentinal tubules of a tooth [1]. These proteins originate from the pulpal microcirculation and are transported into the tubules via the outward flow of dentinal fluid, driven by the positive interstitial pressure of the pulp [2]. In a healthy state, they contribute to the tooth's defense mechanism by providing a physical barrier and immunological components against bacterial ingress [3]. However, in conditions like pulpitis, increased capillary permeability leads to a higher concentration of these proteins in the tubules, which can be used as a biomarker for pulpal inflammation [2]. In clinical practice, these proteins are the functional substrate for certain desensitizing agents, such as glutaraldehyde, which cross-links them to form protein plugs that occlude the tubules and alleviate dentin hypersensitivity [1, 4]. Despite this benefit, the presence of these proteins can also hinder the effectiveness of dental adhesives by competing for space within the collagen matrix during the bonding process [4]. [1] Pashley DH. J Endod. 1986; [2] Knutsson G, et al. Arch Oral Biol. 1994; [3] Ciucchi B, et al. J Endod. 1995; [4] Mjör IA. Dentin-Pulp Complex. 2002.

Other names

Dentinal fluid proteinsIntratubular plasma proteinsPulpal plasma proteinsSerum proteins in dentin

Precipitation and cross-linking of intratubular proteins to create physical plugs that occlude dentinal tubules, thereby reducing fluid movement and hypersensitivity.