Proteins in decayed dentin

The term “proteins in decayed dentin” refers to the complex set of proteins present in dentin tissue that has undergone decay due to carious lesions. Dentin itself is a mineralized tissue located beneath the tooth enamel and consists primarily of type I collagen (~90% of organic content), along with non-collagenous proteins such as dentin phosphoprotein (DPP), dentin sialoprotein (DSP), proteoglycans, growth factors (e.g., TGF-β1, BMPs), and other matrix components[1][2][3][6]. In the context of decay, these proteins are released or denatured due to the action of bacterial proteases and host-derived proteases (such as matrix metalloproteinases and cathepsins), which break down the dentin matrix and contribute to cavity formation[1][7]. The decayed dentin does not contain a single unique protein target but rather a reservoir of matrix proteins and bioactive molecules, some of which can stimulate reparative processes in the pulp-dentin complex or participate in remineralization[2][3]. These proteins are important for tissue repair and regeneration studies but are not a distinct drug target, receptor, or enzyme.

Other names

Dentin matrix proteins in carious dentinProteins released during dentin decayCaries-exposed dentin proteinsProteins in degraded dentin