Plasma and dentinal fluid proteins

Plasma and dentinal fluid proteins refer to the complex mixture of proteins found within the blood plasma and the interstitial fluid of the dental tubules (Pashley, 1992). These proteins include systemic components such as albumin, immunoglobulins, and fibrinogen, as well as locally produced proteins like dentin sialoprotein and various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) (Mjör, 2002). In clinical dentistry, these proteins play a critical role in the pathophysiology of dental caries and pulpitis, as they contribute to the immune defense and the inflammatory response of the dentin-pulp complex (Tjäderhane et al., 2013). Furthermore, the presence of these proteins can significantly impact the efficacy of restorative procedures; for instance, they can interfere with the hybridization of dental adhesives or contribute to the degradation of the resin-dentin bond over time through enzymatic activity (Pashley et al., 2011). Consequently, therapeutic strategies often focus on the inhibition of specific proteases within this fluid or the pretreatment of the dentin surface to manage the protein interface. Agents like chlorhexidine are frequently employed to inhibit the MMPs present in the dentinal fluid, thereby preserving the integrity of the collagen matrix in the hybrid layer (Carrilho et al., 2007). Understanding the composition and dynamics of these proteins is essential for improving dental material performance and developing diagnostic tools for pulpal health.

Other names

Dentinal fluid proteinsSerum proteins in dentinDental tubule proteins

Inhibition of endogenous matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cysteine cathepsins to prevent collagen degradation.