Enamel organ proteins as targets for antibodies in celiac disease: implications for oral health

Enamel defects in permanent and deciduous teeth may be oral manifestations of celiac disease. Sometimes they are the only sign that points to this underdiagnosed autoimmune pathology. However, the etiology of these specific enamel defects remains unknown. Based on previously reported cross?reactivity of antibodies to gliadin with the enamel proteins, amelogenin and ameloblastin, we analyzed (using immunohistochemistry) the ability of anti?gliadin IgG, produced during untreated disease, to recognize enamel organ structures. We used swine germ teeth as a tissue model because they are highly homologous to human teeth in terms of proteins and development biology. Strong staining of the enamel matrix and of the layer of ameloblasts was observed with serum samples from women with celiac dise…
MedWorm: Dentistry