Molecular, Genetic and Histological Approach to Dental Development

Abstract

Mammalian dentition consist of teeth that develop as discrete organs. From anterior to posterior, the dentition is divided into regions of incisor, canine, premolar and molar tooth types. This rewiev discusses the histologic aspect of tooth development and the coming together of the different tissues that give rise to the form and give shape to the tooth. However, to better understand 'morphogenesis', the molecular signals that control cell growth, migration, and ultimately cell fate and differantiation also must be considered. For every developmental event, whether of limb, kidney, or tooth, a complex and intricate cascade of gene expression takes place to direct the cells to the right place and onto the proper differantiation pathway. Hundreads of genes likely are expressed for each developmental pathway, but this rewiev covers the most important signaling molecules and pathways so far described.