Dentin sialoprotein isoforms: detection and characterization of a high molecular weight dentin sialoprotein

Dentin Sialophosphoprotein Deletion Leads to Femoral Head Cartilage Attenuation and Subchondral Bone Ill-mineralization

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), which expresses and synthesizes in odontoblasts of dental pulp, is a critical protein for normal teeth mineralization. Originally, DSPP was identified as a dentin-specific protein. In 2010, DSPP was also found in femoral head cartilage, and it is still unclear what roles DSPP play in femoral head cartilage formation, growth, and maintenance. To reveal biological functions of DSPP in the femoral head cartilage, we examined Dspp null mice compared with wild-type (WT) mice to observe DSPP expression as well as localization in WT mice and to uncover differences of femoral head cartilage, bone morphology, and structure between these two kinds of mice. Expression data demonstrated that DSPP had heterogeneous fragments, expressed in each layer of femoral head cartilage and subchondral bone of WT mice. Dspp null mice exhibited a significant reduction in the thickness of femoral head cartilage, with decreases in the amount of proliferating cartilage cells and increases in apoptotic cells. In addition, the subchondral bone mineralization decreased, and the expressions of vessel markers (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] and CD31), osteoblast markers (Osterix and dentin matrix protein 1 [DMP1]), osteocyte marker (sclerostin [SOST]), and osteoclast marker (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase [TRAP]) were remarkably altered. These indicate that DSPP deletion can affect the proliferation of cartilage cells in the femoral head cartilage and endochondral ossification in subchondral bone. Our data clearly demonstrate that DSPP plays essential roles in the femoral head cartilage growth and maintenance and subchondral biomineralization.

Non-Collagenous Dentin Protein Binding Sites Control Mineral Formation during the Biomineralisation Process in Radicular Dentin

The biomineralisation of radicular dentin involves complex molecular signalling. Providing evidence of protein binding sites for calcium ions and mineral precipitation is essential for a better understanding of the remineralisation process. This study aimed to evaluate the functional relationship of metalloproteinases (MMPs) and non-collagenous proteins (NCPs) with mineral initiation and maturation during the biomineralisation of radicular dentin. A standardized demineralisation procedure was performed to radicular dentin slices. Samples were remineralised in a PBS-bioactive material system for different periods of time. Assessments of ion exchange, Raman analysis, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to evaluate the remineralisation process. Immunohistochemistry and zymography were performed to analyse NCPs and MMPs expression. SEM evaluation showed that the mineral nucleation and growth occurs, exclusively, on the demineralised radicular dentin surface. Raman analysis of remineralised dentin showed intense peaks at 955 and 1063 cm⁻¹, which can be attributed to carbonate apatite formation. Immunohistochemistry of demineralised samples revealed the presence of DMP1-CT, mainly in intratubular dentin, whereas DSPP in intratubular and intertubular dentin. DMP1-CT and DSPP binding sites control carbonate apatite nucleation and maturation guiding the remineralisation of radicular dentin.

Protocols for Studying Formation and Mineralization of Dental Tissues In Vivo: Extraction Protocol for Isolating Dentin Matrix Proteins from Developing Teeth

The organic material in developing dentin is 90% type I collagen and 10% non-collagenous proteins. The key to understanding dentin biomineralization is to study how these proteins collectively precipitate and organize hydroxyapatite crystals. The first step in characterizing the proteins within a mineralizing matrix is to efficiently extract and isolate the essential molecular participants and elucidate their structural and biochemical properties. In this study, we expanded previous approaches to develop an improved strategy for the extraction of extracellular matrix proteins from the dentin of developing teeth. Proteins in dentin powder were sequentially extracted in the order Tris-guanidine buffer, HCl-formic acid solution, acetic acid-NaCl solution, Tris-NaCl buffer, and a second Tris-guanidine buffer. Individual fractions were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), by gelatin or casein zymography, and by Western blot analysis using dentin sialoprotein (DSP)- or dentin glycoprotein (DGP)-specific antibodies. This approach was used to purify assorted porcine dentin non-collagenous proteins.

Probing the influence of SIBLING proteins on collagen-I fibrillogenesis and denaturation

Bone tissue is comprised of collagen, non-collagenous proteins, and hydroxyapatite and the SIBLING (small integrin binding, N-linked glycoprotein) family of proteins is the primary group of non-collagenous proteins. By replicating the native interactions between collagen and the SIBLING proteins at the interface of an implant, it is believed that a bone scaffold will more easily integrate with the surrounding tissue. In this work, bone sialoprotein, osteopontin (OPN), dentin sialoprotein (DSP), dentin phosphoprotein (DPP), C-terminal fragment of dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1-C), and proteoglycan versions of DSP (DSP-PG) and DMP1 (DMP1-PG) were tested individually to determine their roles in collagen fibrillogenesis and the prevention of denaturation. It was shown that DSP and DPP slowed down fibrillogenesis, while other SIBLINGs had limited impact. In addition, the denaturation time was faster in the presence of DSP and OPN, indicating a negative impact. The role of calcium ions in these processes was also investigated. The presence of calcium ions sped up fibrillogenesis in all scenarios tested, but it had a negative impact by reducing the extent. Calcium also sped up the denaturation in most cases, with the exception of DMP1-C and DSP where the opposite was seen. Calcium had a similar effect on the proteoglycan variants in the fibrillogenesis process, but had no impact on the denaturation process in the presence of these two. It is believed that incorporating DMP1-C or DSP on the surface of a bone implant may improve the collagen interactions with the implant, thereby facilitating improved osteointegration.

In situ analysis of gelatinolytic activity in human dentin

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) such as gelatinases are differentially expressed in human tissues. These enzymes cleave specific substrates involved in cell signaling, tissue development and remodeling and tissue breakdown. Recent evidences show that gelatinases are crucial for normal dentin development and their activity is maintained throughout the entire tooth function in the oral cavity. Due to the lack of information about the exact location and activity of gelatinases in mature human dentin, the present study was designed to examine gelatinolytic levels in sound dentin. In situ zymography using confocal microscopy was performed on both mineralized and demineralized dentin samples. Sites presenting gelatinase activity were identified throughout the entire biological tissue pursuing different gelatinolytic levels for distinct areas: predentin and dentinal tubule regions presented higher gelatinolytic activity compared to intertubular dentin. Dentin regions with higher gelatinolytic activity immunohistochemically were partially correlated with MMP-2 expression. The maintenance of gelatinolytic activity in mature dentin may have biological implications related to biomineralization of predentin and tubular/peritubular dentinal regions, as well as regulation of defensive mechanisms of the dentin-pulp complex.

Loss of Function of Evc2 in Dental Mesenchyme Leads to Hypomorphic Enamel

Ellis-van Creveld (EvC) syndrome is an autosomal-recessive skeletal dysplasia, characterized by short stature and postaxial polydactyly. A series of dental abnormalities, including hypomorphic enamel formation, has been reported in patients with EvC. Despite previous studies that attempted to uncover the mechanism leading to abnormal tooth development, little is known regarding how hypomorphic enamel is formed in patients with EvC. In the current study, using Evc2/ Limbin mutant mice we recently generated, we analyzed enamel formation in the mouse incisor. Consistent with symptoms in human patients, we observed that Evc2 mutant mice had smaller incisors with enamel hypoplasia. Histologic observations coupled with ameloblast marker analyses suggested that Evc2 mutant preameloblasts were capable of differentiating to secretory ameloblasts; this process, however, was apparently delayed, due to delayed odontoblast differentiation, mediated by a limited number of dental mesenchymal stem cells in Evc2 mutant mice. This concept was further supported by the observation that dental mesenchymal-specific deletion of Evc2 phenocopied the tooth abnormalities in Evc2 mutants. Overall, our findings suggest that mutations in Evc2 affect dental mesenchymal stem cell homeostasis, which further leads to hypomorphic enamel formation.

Post-translational Modifications of SIBLING Proteins and Their Roles in Osteogenesis and Dentinogenesis

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of bone and dentin contains several non-collagenous proteins. One category of non-collagenous protein is termed the SIBLING (Small Integrin-Binding LIgand, N-linked Glycoprotein) family, that includes osteopontin (OPN), bone sialoprotein (BSP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), and matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein (MEPE). These polyanionic SIBLING proteins are believed to play key biological roles in the mineralization of bone and dentin. Although the specific mechanisms involved in controlling bone and dentin formation are still unknown, it is clear that some functions of the SIBLING family members are dependent on the nature and extent of post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, glycosylation, and proteolytic processing, since these PTMs would have significant effects on their structure. OPN and BSP are present in the ECM of bone and dentin as full-length forms, whereas amino acid sequencing indicates that DMP1 and DSPP exist as proteolytically processed fragments that result from scission of X-Asp bonds. We hypothesized that the processing of DMP1 and DSPP is catalyzed by the PHEX enzyme, since this protein, an endopeptidase that is predominantly expressed in bone and tooth, has a strong preference for cleavage at the NH2-terminus of aspartyl residue. We envision that the proteolytic processing of DMP1 and DSPP may be an activation process that plays a significant, crucial role in osteogenesis and dentinogenesis, and that a failure in this processing would cause defective mineralization in bone and dentin, as observed in X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets.

Transgenic expression of dentin phosphoprotein inhibits skeletal development

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is proteolytically processed into an NH₂-terminal fragment called dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and a COOH-terminal fragment known as dentin phosphoprotein (DPP). These two fragments are believed to perform distinct roles in formation of bone and dentin. To investigate the functions of DPP in skeletal development, we generated transgenic mice to overexpress hemagglutinin (HA)-tagged DPP under the control of a 3.6 kb type I collagen (Col1a1) promoter (designated as Col1a1-HA-DPP). The Col1a1-HA-DPP transgenic mice were significantly smaller by weight, had smaller skeletons and shorter long bones than their wild type littermates, as demonstrated by X-ray radiography. They displayed reduced trabecular bone formation and narrower zones of proliferative and hypertrophic chondrocytes in the growth plates of the long bones. Histological analyses showed that the transgenic mice had reduced cell proliferation in the proliferating zone, but lacked obvious defects in the chondrocyte differentiation. In addition, the transgenic mice with a high level of transgene expression developed spontaneous long bone fractures. In conclusion, overexpressing DPP inhibited skeletal development, suggesting that the balanced actions between the NH₂- and COOH-terminal fragments of DSPP may be required for normal skeletal development.

Accelerated enamel mineralization in Dspp mutant mice

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is one of the major non-collagenous proteins present in dentin, cementum and alveolar bone; it is also transiently expressed by ameloblasts. In humans many mutations have been found in DSPP and are associated with two autosomal-dominant genetic diseases - dentinogenesis imperfecta II (DGI-II) and dentin dysplasia (DD). Both disorders result in the development of hypomineralized and mechanically compromised teeth. The erupted mature molars of Dspp(-/-) mice have a severe hypomineralized dentin phenotype. Since dentin and enamel formations are interdependent, we decided to investigate the process of enamel onset mineralization in young Dspp(-/-) animals. We focused our analysis on the constantly erupting mouse incisor, to capture all of the stages of odontogenesis in one tooth, and the unerupted first molars. Using high-resolution microCT, we revealed that the onset of enamel matrix deposition occurs closer to the cervical loop and both secretion and maturation of enamel are accelerated in Dspp(-/-) incisors compared to the Dspp(+/-) control. Importantly, these differences did not translate into major phenotypic differences in mature enamel in terms of the structural organization, mineral density or hardness. The only observable difference was the reduction in thickness of the outer enamel layer, while the total enamel thickness remained unchanged. We also observed a compromised dentin-enamel junction, leading to delamination between the dentin and enamel layers. The odontoblast processes were widened and lacked branching near the DEJ. Finally, for the first time we demonstrate expression of Dspp mRNA in secretory ameloblasts. In summary, our data show that DSPP is important for normal mineralization of both dentin and enamel.

Transgenic expression of Dspp partially rescued the long bone defects of Dmp1-null mice

Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) belong to the Small Integrin-Binding Ligand N-linked Glycoprotein (SIBLING) family. In addition to the features common to all SIBLING members, DMP1 and DSPP share several unique similarities in chemical structure, proteolytic activation and tissue localization. Mutations in, or deletion of DMP1, cause autosomal recessive hypophosphatemic rickets along with dental defects; DSPP mutations or its ablation are associated with dentinogenesis imperfecta. While the roles and functional mechanisms of DMP1 in osteogenesis have been extensively studied, those of DSPP in long bones have been studied only to a limited extent. Previous studies by our group revealed that transgenic expression of Dspp completely rescued the dentin defects of Dmp1-null (Dmp1(-/-)) mice. In this investigation, we assessed the effects of transgenic Dspp on osteogenesis by analyzing the formation and mineralization of the long bones in Dmp1(-/-) mice that expresses a transgene encoding full-length DSPP driven by a 3.6-kb rat Col1a1 promoter (referred as "Dmp1(-/-);Dspp-Tg mice"). We characterized the long bones of the Dmp1(-/-);Dspp-Tg mice at different ages and compared them with those from Dmp1(-/-) and Dmp1(+/-) (normal control) mice. Our analyses showed that the long bones of Dmp1(-/-);Dspp-Tg mice had a significant increase in cortical bone thickness, bone volume and mineral density along with a remarkable restoration of trabecular thickness compared to those of the Dmp1(-/-) mice. The long bones of Dmp1(-/-);Dspp-Tg mice underwent a dramatic reduction in the amount of osteoid, significant improvement of the collagen fibrillar network, and better organization of the lacunocanalicular system, compared to the Dmp1(-/-) mice. The elevated levels of biglycan, bone sialoprotein and osteopontin in Dmp1(-/-) mice were also noticeably corrected by the transgenic expression of Dspp. These findings suggest that DSPP and DMP1 may function synergistically within the complex milieus of bone matrices.

Family with sequence similarity member 20C is the primary but not the only kinase for the small-integrin-binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins in bone

Recent studies have identified family with sequence similarity member 20C (FAM20C) as a kinase that phosphorylates the Ser in Ser-X-Glu/phospho-Ser (pSer) motifs in the small-integrin-binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins (SIBLINGs). There is no in vivo evidence that validates this finding, and it is unclear whether FAM20C is the only kinase for SIBLINGs. We extracted bone noncollagenous proteins (NCPs) from Fam20C-knockout (KO) mice and analyzed the phosphorylation levels. The total NCPs were separated into osteopontin-, bone sialoprotein-, and dentin matrix protein-1-enriched fractions by anion-exchange chromatography and analyzed by SDS-PAGE, native PAGE, and Western immunoblot analysis. The NCP phosphorylation level in the KO mice was lower than that in the wild-type (WT). On the native gel, the SIBLINGs from KO mice showed a lower migration rate (Mr) than those from the WT. Calf intestine phosphatase treatment shifted SIBLINGs from the WT mice to the level adjacent to the KO, but failed to shift the latter, suggesting a phosphorylation loss of SIBLINGs in the KO mice. Mass spectrometry identified less pSers in the SIBLINGs from the KO mice [including the region of the acidic Ser- and aspartate-rich motif (ASARM) peptides]. In an intriguing finding, several pSers in the Ser-X-Glu motifs in the KO mice maintained their phosphorylation, whereas several others in non-Ser-X-Glu motifs did not. Phospho-Tyrs and phospho-Thrs in the SIBLINGs did not appear to be associated with FAM20C. Our results indicate that FAM20C is the primary, but not the only, kinase for the SIBLINGs.-Yang, X., Yan, W., Tian, Y., Ma, P., Opperman, L. A., Wang, X. Family with sequence similarity member 20C is the primary but not the only kinase for the small-integrin-binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins in bone.

Overexpressing the NH2-terminal fragment of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) aggravates the periodontal defects in Dspp knockout mice

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies have shown that dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is not only essential to the formation and mineralization of dentin but also plays an important role in forming and maintaining a healthy periodontium. Under physiological conditions, DSPP is proteolytically processed into the NH₂-terminal and COOH-terminal fragments, and these fragments are believed to perform different functions in the mineralized tissues. Previous studies in our group have demonstrated that the NH₂-terminal fragment of DSPP inhibits the formation and mineralization of dentin, while the role of this fragment in periodontium is unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed the periodontal tissues of the transgenic mice overexpressing the NH₂-terminal fragment of DSPP in the Dspp knockout background (referred to as "Dspp KO/DSP Tg" mice), in comparison with wild type mice and Dspp knockout mice. The approaches used in this study included histology, micro-computed tomography, back scattered scanning electron microscopy and resin-casted scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Dspp KO/DSP Tg mice exhibited a greater reduction of the alveolar bone, more remarkably altered canalicular systems around the osteocytes, less cementum, more radical migration of the epithelial attachment towards the apical direction, and more severe inflammation in molar furcation region, than in the Dspp knockout mice.

CONCLUSION

Overexpressing the NH₂-terminal fragment of DSPP worsened the periodontal defects in Dspp knockout mice, indicating that the NH₂-terminal fragment of DSPP may exert an inhibitory role in the formation and mineralization of hard tissues in the periodontium.

Role of dentin matrix protein 1 in cartilage redifferentiation and osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to test the possible involvement, relevance and significance of dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) in chondrocyte redifferentiation and OA.

METHODS

To examine the function of DMP1 in vitro, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and articular chondrocytes (ACs) were isolated and differentiated in micromasses in the presence or absence of DMP1 small interfering RNA and analysed for chondrogenic phenotype. The association of DMP1 expression with OA progression was analysed time dependently in the OA menisectomy rat model and in grade-specific OA human samples.

RESULTS

It was found that DMP1 was strongly related to chondrogenesis, which was evidenced by the strong expression of DMP1 in the 14.5-day mouse embryonic cartilage development stage and in femoral heads of post-natal days 0 and 4. In vitro chondrogenesis in BMSCs and ACs was accompanied by a gradual increase in DMP1 expression at both the gene and protein levels. In addition, knockdown of DMP1 expression led to decreased chondrocyte marker genes, such as COL2A1, ACAN and SOX9, and an increase in the expression of COL10A and MMP13 in ACs. Moreover, treatment with IL-1β, a well-known catabolic culprit of proteoglycan matrix loss, significantly reduced the expression of DMP1. Furthermore, we also observed the suppression of DMP1 protein in a grade-specific manner in knee joint samples from patients with OA. In the menisectomy-induced OA model, an increase in the Mankin score was accompanied by the gradual loss of DMP1 expression.

CONCLUSION

Observations from this study suggest that DMP1 may play an important role in maintaining the chondrogenic phenotype and its possible involvement in altered cartilage matrix remodelling and degradation in disease conditions like OA.

Proteomics of Human Teeth and Saliva

Teeth have been a focus of interest for many centuries – due to medical problems with them. They are the hardest part of the human body and are composed of three mineralized parts – enamel, dentin and cementum, together with the soft pulp. However, saliva also has a significant impact on tooth quality. Proteomic research of human teeth is now accelerating, and it includes all parts of the tooth. Some methodological problems still need to be overcome in this research field – mainly connected with calcified tissues. This review will provide an overview of the current state of research with focus on the individual parts of the tooth and pellicle layer as well as saliva. These proteomic results can help not only stomatology in terms of early diagnosis, identifying risk factors, and systematic control.

Expression of Small Integrin-Binding LIgand N-linked Glycoproteins (SIBLINGs) in the reparative dentin of rat molars

AIM

To analyze the expression and distribution of Small Integrin-Binding LIgand N-linked Glycoproteins (SIBLINGs) in reparative dentin (RepD).

METHODOLOGY

Cavities on the mesial surfaces of rat molars were prepared to expose the pulp, and a calcium hydroxide agent was applied to cap the exposed pulp. The molars with pulp capping were extracted at postoperative 1, 2, and 4 weeks. The immunolocalization of four SIBLINGs, dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), dentin sialoprotein (DSP), bone sialoprotein (BSP), and osteopontin (OPN) in RepD, was analyzed in comparison with reactionary dentin (ReaD) and primary dentin (PD).

RESULTS

At two weeks after operation, the region of the exposed pulp formed a layer of reparative dentin bridge sealing the communication between the cavity and pulp chamber. Dentinal tubules in RepD were more irregular in shape and fewer in number than PD. At postoperative 2 and 4 weeks, RepD had lower levels of DMP1 and DSP than PD. BSP and OPN were present in RepD, but not in PD. RepD showed certain similarities to ReaD in the expression of SIBLINGs.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduced levels of DMP1 and DSP may be associated with the decreased number of dentinal tubules in RepD. The expression of BSP and OPN in RepD indicates that the odontoblast-like cells were attempting to produce a hard tissue at a very rapid pace. These findings suggest that in response to the surgical injury, the newly differentiated odontoblast-like cells altered their synthesis of the dentinogenesis-related proteins and produced a hard tissue that is an intermediate between dentin and bone.

Role of the NH2 -terminal fragment of dentin sialophosphoprotein in dentinogenesis

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a large precursor protein that is proteolytically processed into a NH2 -terminal fragment [composed of dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and a proteoglycan form (DSP-PG)] and a COOH-terminal fragment [dentin phosphoprotein (DPP)]. In vitro studies indicate that DPP is a strong initiator and regulator of hydroxyapatite crystal formation and growth, but the role(s) of the NH2 -terminal fragment of DSPP (i.e., DSP and DSP-PG) in dentinogenesis remain unclear. This study focuses on the function of the NH2 -terminal fragment of DSPP in dentinogenesis. Here, transgenic (Tg) mouse lines expressing the NH2 -terminal fragment of DSPP driven by a 3.6-kb type I collagen promoter (Col 1a1) were generated and cross-bred with Dspp null mice to obtain mice that express the transgene but lack the endogenous Dspp (Dspp KO/DSP Tg). We found that dentin from the Dspp KO/DSP Tg mice was much thinner, more poorly mineralized, and remarkably disorganized compared with dentin from the Dspp KO mice. The fact that Dspp KO/DSP Tg mice exhibited more severe dentin defects than did the Dspp null mice indicates that the NH2 -terminal fragment of DSPP may inhibit dentin mineralization or may serve as an antagonist against the accelerating action of DPP and serve to prevent predentin from being mineralized too rapidly during dentinogenesis.

Mineralization induction effects of osteopontin, bone sialoprotein, and dentin phosphoprotein on a biomimetic collagen substrate

Native bone tissue is composed of a matrix of collagen, noncollagenous proteins, and calcium phosphate minerals, which are primarily hydroxyapatite. The SIBLING (small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoprotein) family of proteins is the primary noncollagenous protein group found in mineralized tissues. In this work, the mineralization induction capabilities of three of the SIBLING members, bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteopontin (OPN), and the calcium-binding subdomain of dentin sialophosphoprotein, dentin phosphoprotein (DPP), are directly compared on a biomimetic collagen substrate. A self-assembled, loosely aligned collagen fibril substrate was prepared, and then (125) I-radiolabeled adsorption isotherms were developed for BSP, OPN, and DPP. The results showed that BSP exhibited the highest binding capacity for collagen at lower concentrations, followed by DPP and OPN. However, at the highest concentrations, all three proteins had similar adsorption levels. The adsorption isotherms were then used to identify conditions that resulted in identical amounts of adsorbed protein. These substrates were prepared and placed in simulated body fluid for 5, 10, and 24 h at 37°C. The resulting mineral morphology was assessed by atomic force microscopy, and the composition was determined using photochemical assays. Mineralization was seen in the presence of all the proteins. However, DPP was seen to be the only protein that formed individual mineral nodules similar to those seen in developing bone. This suggests that DPP plays a significant role in the biomineralization process and that the incorporation of DPP into tissue engineering constructs may facilitate the induction of biomimetic mineral formation.

Adhesion of MC3T3-E1 cells bound to dentin phosphoprotein specifically bound to collagen type I

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a member of the SIBLING (small integrin binding N-linked glycoprotein) family of proteins commonly found in mineralized tissues. Dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) is a naturally occurring subdomain of DSPP that contains the cell binding RGD sequence. Previously, the orientation and conformation of other SIBLING family members specifically bound to collagen I have been investigated with respect to their cell adhesion properties. In this study, the orientation of DPP under similar circumstances is examined, and the results are discussed relative to the previous investigations. Radiolabeled adsorption isotherms were developed for DPP adsorbing to both tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) and collagen coated TCPS. Then, a MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion assay was performed on TCPS and collagen coated TCPS in the presence of identical amounts of adsorbed DPP. It was discovered that there was a significant difference in the number of bound cells on the TCPS and collagen coated TCPS, with a preference for TCPS. Furthermore, a cell inhibition assay was conducted to confirm that the cell binding that occurred was due to specific integrin interactions with the RGD sequence of DPP. These results suggest that the orientation of DPP, rather than its conformation, dictates the accessibility of the cell binding RGD domains of DPP and that the RGD sequence in DPP is less accessible when DPP is specifically bound to collagen. The results obtained in this study are in stark contrast to previous studies with related SIBLING proteins, and suggest that DPP does not play a key role in cell binding to the collagen matrix of developing bone.

Transcriptional repression of the Dspp gene leads to dentinogenesis imperfecta phenotype in Col1a1-Trps1 transgenic mice

Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI) is a hereditary defect of dentin, a calcified tissue that is the most abundant component of teeth. Most commonly, DGI is manifested as a part of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) or the phenotype is restricted to dental findings only. In the latter case, DGI is caused by mutations in the DSPP gene, which codes for dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP). Although these two proteins together constitute the majority of noncollagenous proteins of the dentin, little is known about their transcriptional regulation. Here we demonstrate that mice overexpressing the Trps1 transcription factor (Col1a1-Trps1 mice) in dentin-producing cells, odontoblasts, present with severe defects of dentin formation that resemble DGI. Combined micro-computed tomography (µCT) and histological analyses revealed tooth fragility due to severe hypomineralization of dentin and a diminished dentin layer with irregular mineralization in Col1a1-Trps1 mice. Biochemical analyses of noncollagenous dentin matrix proteins demonstrated decreased levels of both DSP and DPP proteins in Col1a1-Trps1 mice. On the molecular level, we demonstrated that sustained high levels of Trps1 in odontoblasts lead to dramatic decrease of Dspp expression as a result of direct inhibition of the Dspp promoter by Trps1. During tooth development Trps1 is highly expressed in preodontoblasts, but in mature odontoblasts secreting matrix its expression significantly decreases, which suggests a Trps1 role in odontoblast development. In these studies we identified Trps1 as a potent inhibitor of Dspp expression and the subsequent mineralization of dentin. Thus, we provide novel insights into mechanisms of transcriptional dysregulation that leads to DGI.

Proteolytic processing of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is essential to dentinogenesis

DSPP, which plays a crucial role in dentin formation, is processed into the NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal fragments. We believe that the proteolytic processing of DSPP is an essential activation step for its biological function in biomineralization. We tested this hypothesis by analyzing transgenic mice expressing the mutant D452A-DSPP in the Dspp-knock-out (Dspp-KO) background (referred to as "Dspp-KO/D452A-Tg" mice). We employed multipronged approaches to characterize the dentin of the Dspp-KO/D452A-Tg mice, in comparison with Dspp-KO mice and mice expressing the normal DSPP transgene in the Dspp-KO background (named Dspp-KO/normal-Tg mice). Our analyses showed that 90% of the D452A-DSPP in the dentin of Dspp-KO/D452A-Tg mice was not cleaved, indicating that D452A substitution effectively blocked the proteolytic processing of DSPP in vivo. While the expression of the normal DSPP fully rescued the dentin defects of the Dspp-KO mice, expressing the D452A-DSPP failed to do so. These results indicate that the proteolytic processing of DSPP is an activation step essential to its biological function in dentinogenesis.

Immunohistochemical localization of the NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal fragments of dentin sialoprotein in mouse teeth

Dentin sialoprotein (DSP) is a major non-collagenous protein in dentin. Mutation studies in human, along with gene knockout and transgenic experiments in mice, have confirmed the critical role of DSP for dentin formation. Our previous study reported that DSP is processed into fragments in mouse odontoblast-like cells. In order to gain insights into the function of DSP fragments, we further evaluated the expression pattern of DSP in the mouse odontoblast-like cells using immunohistochemistry and western blot assay with antibodies against the NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal regions of DSP. Then, the distribution profiles of the DSP NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal fragments and osteopontin (OPN) were investigated in mouse teeth at different ages by immunohistochemistry. In the odontoblast-like cells, multiple low molecular weight DSP fragments were detected, suggesting that part of the DSP protein was processed in the odontoblast-like cells. In mouse first lower molars, immunoreactions for anti-DSP-NH(2) antibody were intense in the predentin matrix but weak in mineralized dentin; in contrast, for anti-DSP-COOH antibody, strong immunoreactions were found in mineralized dentin, in particular dentinal tubules but weak in predentin. Therefore, DSP NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal fragments from odontoblasts were secreted to different parts of teeth, suggesting that they may play distinct roles in dentinogenesis. Meanwhile, both DSP antibodies showed weak staining in reactionary dentin (RD), whereas osteopontin (OPN) was clearly positive in RD. Therefore, DSP may be less crucial for RD formation than OPN.

Partial blocking of mouse DSPP processing by substitution of Gly(451)-Asp(452) bond suggests the presence of secondary cleavage site(s)

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) in the extracellular matrix of dentin is cleaved into dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein, which originate from the NH(2)-terminal and COOH-terminal regions of DSPP, respectively. In the proteolytic processing of mouse DSPP, the peptide bond at Gly(451)-Asp(452) has been shown to be cleaved by bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1)/Tolloid-like metalloproteinases. In this study, we generated transgenic mice expressing a mutant DSPP in which Asp(452) was substituted by Ala(452). Protein chemistry analyses of extracts from the long bone of these transgenic mice showed that the D452A substitution partially blocked DSPP processing in vivo. When the full-length form of mutant DSPP (designated "D452A-DSPP") isolated from the transgenic mice was treated with BMP1 in vitro, a portion of the D452A-DSPP was cleaved, suggesting the presence of secondary peptide bond(s) that can be broken by BMP1. To identify the potential secondary DSPP cleavage site(s), site-directed mutagenesis was performed to generate nine DNA constructs expressing DSPP-bearing substitutions at potential scission sites. These different types of mutant DSPP made in eukaryotic cell lines were treated with BMP1 and the digestion products were assessed by Western immunoblotting. All of the mutant DSPP molecular species were partially cleaved by BMP1, giving rise to a protein band on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis similar to that of normal dentin sialoprotein. Taken together, we concluded that in addition to the peptide bond Gly(451)-Asp(452), there must be a cryptic cleavage site or sites close to Asp(452) in the mouse DSPP that can be cleaved by BMP1.

Expression of dentin sialophosphoprotein in non-mineralized tissues

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and its cleaved products, dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) and dentin sialoprotein (DSP), play important roles in biomineralization. Believed to be tooth specific, the authors' group revealed its expression in bone, and more recently, they and other groups also showed its expression in a few types of soft tissues. In this study, the authors systematically examined the expression of DSPP in a variety of non-mineralized tissues using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real-time PCR, Western immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry analyses in wild-type mice as well as β-galactosidase assays in the Dspp lacZ knock-in mice. These approaches showed the presence of DSPP in the salivary glands, cartilage, liver, kidney, and brain and its absence in the heart and spleen. Real-time PCR showed that the expression levels of DSPP mRNA in salivary glands, cartilage, liver, and kidney were higher than in the bone. Interestingly, DSPP was observed in the pericytes of blood vessels in the dental pulp, which are believed to be able to differentiate into odontoblasts. On the basis of these observations, the authors conclude that DSPP and/or its cleaved products may fulfill important functions in certain non-mineralized tissues in addition to its role in biomineralization.

Expression of dentine sialophosphoprotein in mouse nasal cartilage

OBJECTIVE

Dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) was initially thought to be unique for dentine formation during tooth development, whilst recent reports have shown a much broader expression pattern such as in bone, periodontium and inner ear. Our goal was to explore its expression and potential impact during early nasal cartilage formation in comparison with tooth development.

STUDY DESIGN

We investigated DSPP expression in the nasal cartilage by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridisation. We also cloned a 719bp partial DSPP cDNA from nasal cartilage and analysed its homology to the published mouse DSPP cDNA sequence. In addition, quantitative RT-PCR was undertaken to compare the expression pattern of DSPP in nasal cartilage and tooth germs during embryonic development.

RESULTS

The expression of DSPP in mouse nasal chondrocytes was detected using in situ hybridisation and immunohistochemical staining. The quantitative RT-PCR data showed that expression levels of DSPP in nasal cartilage are similar to that of tooth: low at E18, and increased during development with the peak level at P3. Furthermore, DSPP levels in nasal cartilage are lower than tooth but higher than bone.

CONCLUSION

DSPP is expressed in nasal cartilage, and a similar temporal expression pattern in cartilage and tooth indicates the potential importance of DSPP during development.

Deposition of apatite in mineralizing vertebrate extracellular matrices: A model of possible nucleation sites on type I collagen

The positions of charged residues in the primary sequence of amino acids comprising the molecular model of type I collagen, the major extracellular protein found in vertebrate tissues, have been earlier characterized by Chapman and Hardcastle [Chapman, J.A., and Hardcastle, R.A. (1974). The staining pattern of collagen fibrils. II. A comparison with patterns computer-generated from the amino acid sequence. Connect. Tissue Res. 2:151-159]. When the sequence of residues is packed in the quarter-staggered arrangement described originally by Hodge and Petruska [Hodge, A.J., and Petruska, J.A. (1963). Recent studies with the electron microscope on ordered aggregates of the tropocollagen macromolecule. In Aspects of Protein Structure, G.N. Ramachandran (ed.) pp. 289-300. New York: Academic Press] in two dimensions and in the quasi-hexagonal model of microfibrillar assembly and molecular packing structure in three dimensions detailed recently by Orgel et al. (Orgel, J.P.R.O., Miller, A., Irving, T.C., Fischetti, R.F., Hammersley, A.P., and Wess, T.J. (2001). The in situ supermolecular structure of type I collagen. Structure 9:1061-1069; Orgel, J.P.R.O., Irving, T.C., Miller, A., and Wess, T.J. (2006). Microfibrillar structure of type I collagen in situ. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 103: 9001-9005], the common sites of charged amino acids, specifically glutamic and aspartic acid, lysine and arginine, and hydroxylysine and histidine, of type I collagen have been examined in the present study and their locations determined in relation to one another. The respective positions of these amino acid residues are notable in several features in two dimensions within a single collagen triple helix as well as in adjacent helices. There are, first, numerous sites in which the same amino acid is adjacent in each of the three collagen helices. Second, many sites exist in which two of the same amino acids and one of the same charge are adjacent in the three helices. Third, the same two or three glutamic and/or aspartic amino acids are found in close proximity to amino acids with their counterparts, aspartic and glutamic acid, respectively. Fourth, several sites occur in which the same two or three amino acids of one charge are present in close proximity to the same two or three amino acids of opposite charge (glutamic acid and lysine or arginine residues or aspartic acid and lysine or arginine residues). Fifth, there are several sites where hydroxylysine contributes charged groups in place of one of the three lysine or arginine residues common in adjacent collagen helices. The strikingly repetitive and close nature of these specific charged groups in two dimensions is even more apparent when the molecular packing structure is investigated in three dimensions. In this instance, the most recent model of Orgel et al. [Orgel, J.P.R.O., Irving, T.C., Miller, A., and Wess, T.J. (2006). Microfibrillar structure of type I collagen in situ. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 103: 9001-9005] has been correlated for the first time with the model of Landis et al. [Landis, W.J., Song, M.J., Leith, A., McEwen, L., and McEwen, B. (1993). Mineral and organic matrix interaction in normally calcifying tendon visualized in three dimensions by high voltage electron microscopic tomography and graphic image reconstruction. J. Struct. Biol. 110: 39-54] showing channels traversing molecular arrays of collagen. Here, many of the charged amino acid sites correspond to the known type I collagen hole zones defined by Hodge and Petruska [Hodge, A.J., and Petruska, J.A. (1963). Recent studies with the electron microscope on ordered aggregates of the tropocollagen macromolecule. In Aspects of Protein Structure, G.N. Ramachandran (ed.) pp. 289-300. New York: Academic Press]. As such, these residues present the locations highly likely to bind Ca(2+) and [Formula: see text] ions in stereochemical configurations that could serve directly as nucleation centers for the subsequent growth and development of apatite crystals representing initial events in vertebrate mineralization. Based on these results, type I collagen appears to provide a molecular framework for direct formation of apatite without the necessary intervention or mediation of other molecules in extracellular matrices of vertebrate calcifying tissues.

A novel role of periostin in postnatal tooth formation and mineralization

Periostin plays multiple functions during development. Our previous work showed a critical role of this disulfide-linked cell adhesion protein in maintenance of periodontium integrity in response to occlusal load. In this study, we attempted to address whether this mechanical response molecule played a direct role in postnatal tooth development. Our key findings are 1) periostin is expressed in preodontoblasts, and odontoblasts; and the periostin-null incisor displayed a massive increase in dentin formation after mastication; 2) periostin is also expressed in the ameloblast cells, and an enamel defect is identified in both the adult-null incisor and molar; 3) deletion of periostin leads to changes in expression profiles of many non-collagenous protein such as DSPP, DMP1, BSP, and OPN in incisor dentin; 4) the removal of a biting force leads to reduction of mineralization, which is partially prevented in periostin-null mice; and 6) both in vitro and in vivo data revealed a direct regulation of periostin by TGF-β1 in dentin formation. In conclusion, periostin plays a novel direct role in controlling postnatal tooth formation, which is required for the integrity of both enamel and dentin.

Ablation of systemic phosphate-regulating gene fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23) compromises the dentoalveolar complex

Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) is a hormone that modulates circulating phosphate (P(i)) levels by controlling P(i) reabsorption from the kidneys. When FGF23 levels are deficient, as in tumoral calcinosis patients, hyperphosphatemia ensues. We show here in a murine model that Fgf23 ablation disrupted morphology and protein expression within the dentoalveolar complex. Ectopic matrix formation in pulp chambers, odontoblast layer disruption, narrowing of periodontal ligament space, and alteration of cementum structure were observed in histological and electron microscopy sections. Because serum P(i) levels are dramatically elevated in Fgf23(-/-), we assayed for apoptosis and expression of members from the small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoprotein (SIBLING) family, both of which are sensitive to elevated P(i) in vitro. Unlike X-linked hypophosphatemic (Hyp) and wild-type (WT) specimens, numerous apoptotic osteocytes and osteoblasts were detected in Fgf23(-/-) specimens. Further, in comparison to Hyp and WT samples, decreased bone sialoprotein and elevated dentin matrix protein-1 protein levels were observed in cementum of Fgf23(-/-) mice. Additional dentin-associated proteins, such as dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein, exhibited altered localization in both Fgf23(-/-) and Hyp samples. Based on these results, we propose that FGF23 and (P(i)) homeostasis play a significant role in maintenance of the dentoalveolar complex.

Dentin sialophosphoprotein in biomineralization

Two of the proteins found in significant quantity in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of dentin are dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) and dentin sialoprotein (DSP). DPP, the most abundant of the noncollagenous proteins (NCPs) in dentin is an unusually polyanionic protein, containing a large number of aspartic acids (Asp) and phosphoserines (Pse) in the repeating sequences of (Asp-Pse)(n). and (Asp-Pse-Pse)(n). The many negatively charged regions of DPP are thought to promote mineralization by binding calcium and presenting it to collagen fibers at the mineralization front during the formation of dentin. This purported role of DPP is supported by a sizeable pool of in vitro mineralization data showing that DPP is an important initiator and modulator for the formation and growth of hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals. Quite differently, DSP is a glycoprotein, with little or no phosphate. DPP and DSP are the cleavage products of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP). Human and mouse genetic studies have demonstrated that mutations in, or knockout of, the Dspp gene result in mineralization defects in dentin and/or bone. The discoveries in the past 40 years with regard to DPP, DSP, and DSPP have greatly enhanced our understanding of biomineralization and set a new stage for future studies. In this review, we summarize the important and new developments made in the past four decades regarding the structure and regulation of the Dspp gene, the biochemical characteristics of DSPP, DPP, and DSP as well as the cell/tissue localizations and functions of these molecules.

Distribution of small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoproteins (SIBLING) in the articular cartilage of the rat femoral head

The small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoprotein (SIBLING) family is closely related to osteogenesis. Until recently, little was known about their existence in articular cartilage. In this study, we systematically evaluated the presence and distribution of four SIBLING family members in rat femoral head cartilage: dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteopontin (OPN), and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP). First, non-collagenous proteins were extracted and then separated by ion-exchange chromatography. Next, the protein extracts eluted by chromatography were analyzed by Stains-all staining and Western immunoblotting. IHC was used to assess the distribution of these four SIBLING family members in the femoral head cartilage. Both approaches showed that all the four SIBLING family members are expressed in the femoral head cartilage. IHC showed that SIBLING members are distributed in various locations throughout the articular cartilage. The NH₂-terminal fragments of DMP1, BSP, and OPN are present in the cells and in the extracellular matrix, whereas the COOH-terminal fragment of DMP1 and the NH₂-terminal fragment of DSPP are primarily intracellularly localized in the chondrocytes. The presence of the SIBLING family members in the rat femoral head cartilage suggests that they may play important roles in chondrogenesis.

Characterization of stem and progenitor cells in the dental pulp of erupted and unerupted murine molars

In the past few years there have been significant advances in the identification of putative stem cells also referred to as "mesenchymal stem cells" (MSC) in dental tissues including the dental pulp. It is thought that MSC in dental pulp share certain similarities with MSC isolated from other tissues. However, cells in dental pulp are still poorly characterized. This study focused on the characterization of progenitor and stem cells in dental pulps of erupted and unerupted mice molars. Our study showed that dental pulps from unerupted molars contain a significant number of cells expressing CD90+/CD45-, CD117+/CD45-, Sca-1+/CD45- and little if any CD45+ cells. Our in vitro functional studies showed that dental pulp cells from unerupted molars displayed extensive osteo-dentinogenic potential but were unable to differentiate into chondrocytes and adipocytes. Dental pulps from erupted molars displayed a reduced number of cells, contained a higher percentage of CD45+ and a lower percentage of cells expressing CD90+/CD45-, CD117+/CD45- as compared to unerupted molars. In vitro functional assays demonstrated the ability of a small fraction of cells to differentiate into odontoblasts, osteoblasts, adipocytes and chondrocytes. There was a significant reduction in the osteo-dentinogenic potential of the pulp cells derived from erupted molars compared to unerupted molars. Furthermore, the adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of pulp cells from erupted molars was dependent on a long induction period and were infrequent. Based on these findings we propose that the dental pulp of the erupted molars contain a small population of multipotent cells, whereas the dental pulp of the unerupted molars does not contain multipotent cells but is enriched in osteo-dentinogenic progenitors engaged in the formation of coronal and radicular odontoblasts.

Glycosaminoglycan chain of dentin sialoprotein proteoglycan

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is processed into dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin phosphoprotein. A molecular variant of rat DSP, referred to as "HMW-DSP", has been speculated to be a proteoglycan form of DSP. To determine if HMW-DSP is the proteoglycan form of DSP and to identify the glycosaminoglycan side-chain attachment site(s), we further characterized HMW-DSP. Chondroitinase ABC treatment reduced the migration rate for portions of rat HMW-DSP to the level of DSP. Disaccharide analysis showed that rat HMW-DSP contains glycosaminoglycan chains made of chondroitin-4-sulfate and has an average of 31-32 disaccharides/mol. These observations confirmed that HMW-DSP is the proteoglycan form of DSP (renamed "DSP-PG"). Edman degradation and mass spectrometric analyses of tryptic peptides from rat DSP-PG, along with substitution analyses of candidate Ser residues in mouse DSPP, confirmed that 2 glycosaminoglycan chains are attached to Ser(241) and Ser(253) in the rat, or Ser(242) and Ser(254) in the mouse DSPP sequence.

Expression and distribution of SIBLING proteins in the predentin/dentin and mandible of hyp mice

OBJECTIVES

Human X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) and its murine homologue, Hyp are caused by inactivating mutations in PHEX gene. The protein encoded by PHEX gene is an endopeptidase whose physiological substrate(s) has not been identified. Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), two members of the Small Integrin-Binding LIgand, N-linked Glycoprotein (SIBLING) family are proteolytically processed. It has been speculated that PHEX endopeptidase may be responsible for the proteolytic cleavage of DMP1 and DSPP. To test this hypothesis and to analyse the distribution of SIBLING proteins in the predentin/dentin complex and mandible of Hyp mice, we compared the expression of four SIBLING proteins, DMP1, DSPP, bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteopontin (OPN) between Hyp and wild-type mice.

METHODS

These SIBLING proteins were analysed by protein chemistry and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

(1) Dentin matrix protein 1 and DSPP fragments are present in the extracts of Hyp predentin/dentin and bone; (2) the level of DMP1 proteoglycan form, BSP and OPN is elevated in the Hyp bone.

CONCLUSIONS

The PHEX protein is not the enzyme responsible for the proteolytic processing of DMP1 and DSPP. The altered distribution of SIBLING proteins may be involved in the pathogenesis of bone and dentin defects in Hyp and XLH.

Distribution of small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoproteins (SIBLING) in the condylar cartilage of rat mandible

The Small Integrin-Binding LIgand, N-linked Glycoprotein (SIBLING) family is one category of non-collagenous proteins closely related to osteogenesis. In this study, the authors systematically evaluated the presence and distribution of four SIBLING family members, dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteopontin (OPN), in rat mandibular condylar cartilage using protein chemistry and immunohistochemistry. For protein chemistry, SIBLING proteins in the dissected condylar cartilage were extracted with 4M guanidium-HCl, separated by ion-exchange chromatography, and analyzed by Western immunoblotting. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the distribution of these four SIBLING proteins in the condylar cartilage of 2-, 5- and 8-week-old rats. Results from both approaches showed that all four members are expressed in the condylar cartilage. DSPP, unlike that observed in dentin and bone, exists as a full-length form (uncleaved) in the condylar cartilage. The NH(2)-terminal fragment of DMP1 is mainly detected in the matrix of the cartilage while the COOH-terminal fragment is primarily localized in the nuclei of cells in the chondroblastic and hypertrophic layers. The data obtained in this investigation provide clues about the potential roles of these SIBLING proteins in chondrogenesis.

Dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein have distinct roles in dentin mineralization

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), a major non-collagenous matrix protein of odontoblasts, is proteolytically cleaved into dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP). Our previous studies revealed that DSPP null mice display a phenotype similar to human autosomal dominant dentinogenesis imperfecta, in which teeth have widened predentin and irregular dentin mineralization resulting in sporadic unmineralized areas in dentin and frequent pulp exposure. Earlier in vitro studies suggested that DPP, but not DSP, plays a significant role in initiation and maturation of dentin mineralization. However, the precise in vivo roles of DSP and DPP are far from clear. Here we report the generation of DPPcKO mice, in which only DSP is expressed in a DSPP null background, resulting in a conditional DPP knockout. DPPcKO teeth show a partial rescue of the DSPP null phenotype with the restored predentin width, an absence of irregular unmineralized areas in dentin, and less frequent pulp exposure. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis of DPPcKO molars further confirmed this partial rescue with a significant recovery in the dentin volume, but not in the dentin mineral density. These results indicate distinct roles of DSP and DPP in dentin mineralization, with DSP regulating initiation of dentin mineralization, and DPP being involved in the maturation of mineralized dentin.

Mineral deposition in the extracellular matrices of vertebrate tissues: identification of possible apatite nucleation sites on type I collagen

The possible means by which type I collagen may mediate mineralization in normal vertebrate bone, tendon, dentin and cementum as well as in pathological mineral formation are not fully understood. One consideration in this regard is that the structure of the protein is somehow important in binding calcium and phosphate ions in a stereochemical configuration conducive to nucleation of apatite crystals. In the present study, type I collagen, packed in a quarter-staggered arrangement in two dimensions and a quasi-hexagonal model of microfibrillar assembly in three dimensions, has been examined in terms of several of its charged amino acid residues. These included glutamic and aspartic acid, lysine, arginine, hydroxylysine and histidine, whose positions along the three alpha-chain axes of the collagen molecule were determined with respect to each other. It was found that the locations of these residues specified sites uniquely suited as potential apatite nucleation centers following binding of calcium and phosphate ions. From this analysis, it would appear that type I collagen provides a template of charged amino acid residues that dictates ion binding critical to subsequent nucleation events for mineral formation in vertebrate tissues.

Porcine dentin sialophosphoprotein: length polymorphisms, glycosylation, phosphorylation, and stability

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is critical for proper mineralization of tooth dentin, and mutations in DSPP cause inherited dentin defects. Dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) is the C-terminal cleavage product of DSPP that binds collagen and induces intrafibrillar mineralization. We isolated DPP from individual pigs and determined that its N-terminal and C-terminal domains are glycosylated and that DPP averages 155 phosphates per molecule. Porcine DPP is unstable at low pH and high temperatures, and complexing with collagen improves its stability. Surprisingly, we observed DPP size variations on SDS-PAGE for DPP isolated from individual pigs. These variations are not caused by differences in proteolytic processing or degrees of phosphorylation or glycosylation, but rather to allelic variations in Dspp. Characterization of the DPP coding region identified 4 allelic variants. Among the 4 alleles, 27 sequence variations were identified, including 16 length polymorphisms ranging from 3 to 63 nucleotides. None of the length variations shifted the reading frame, and all localized to the highly redundant region of the DPP code. The 4 alleles encode DPP domains having 551, 575, 589, or 594 amino acids and completely explain the DPP size variations. DPP length variations are polymorphic and are not associated with dentin defects.

Distribution of SIBLING proteins in the organic and inorganic phases of rat dentin and bone

The SIBLING protein family is a group of non-collagenous proteins (NCPs) that includes dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP), and osteopontin (OPN). In the present study, we compared these four proteins in different phases of rat dentin and bone. First, we extracted NCPs in the unmineralized matrices and cellular compartments using guanidium-HCl (G1). Second, we extracted NCPs closely associated with hydroxyapatite using an EDTA solution (E). Last, we extracted the remaining NCPs again with guanidium-HCl (G2). Each fraction of Q-Sepharose ion-exchange chromatography was analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), Stains-All stain, and with western immunoblotting. In dentin, the NH(2)-terminal fragment of DSPP and its proteoglycan form were primarily present in the G1 extract, whereas the COOH-terminal fragment of DSPP was present exclusively in the E extract. The processed NH(2)-terminal fragment of DMP1 was present in G1 and E extracts, whereas the COOH-terminal fragment of DMP1 existed mainly in the E extract. Bone sialoprotein was present in all three extracts of dentin and bone, whereas OPN was present only in the G1 and E extracts of bone. The difference in the distribution of the SIBLING proteins between organic and inorganic phases supports the belief that these molecular species play different roles in dentinogenesis and osteogenesis.

Dentin sialophosphoprotein is processed by MMP-2 and MMP-20 in vitro and in vivo

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a major secretory product of odontoblasts and is critical for proper tooth dentin formation. During dentinogenesis, DSPP is proteolytically cleaved into smaller subunits. These cleavages are proposed activation steps, and failure to make these cleavages is a potential cause of developmental tooth defects. We tested the hypothesis that dentin-resident matrix metalloproteinases catalyze the cleavages that process DSPP. We defined the exact DSPP cleavages that are catalyzed by proteases during crown formation by isolating DSPP-derived proteins from developing porcine molars and characterizing their N-terminal sequences and apparent size on SDS-PAGE and Western blots. The in vivo DSPP cleavage sites were on the N-terminal sides of Thr(200), Ser(330), Val(353), Leu(360), Ile(362), Ser(377), Ser(408), and Asp(458). The initial DSPP cleavage is between dentin glycoprotein (DGP) and dentin phosphoprotein (DPP), generating dentin sialoprotein (DSP)/DGP and DPP. Gelatin and casein zymograms identified MMP-2, MMP-20, and KLK4 in the dentin extracts. MMP-2 and MMP-20 were purified from over 150 g of porcine dentin powder and incubated with DSP-DGP and DPP. These enzymes show no activity in further cleaving DPP. MMP-20 cleaves DSP-DGP to generate DSP and DGP. MMP-20 also cleaves DSP at multiple sites, releasing N-terminal DSP cleavage products ranging in size from 25 to 38 kDa. MMP-2 makes multiple cleavages near the DSP C terminus, releasing larger forms of DGP, or "extended DGPs." Exact correspondence between DSPP cleavage sites that occur in vivo and those generated in vitro demonstrates that MMP-2 and MMP-20 process DSPP into smaller subunits in the dentin matrix during odontogenesis.

Immunohistochemical study of small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoproteins in reactionary dentin of rat molars at different ages

Small integrin-binding ligand, N-linked glycoproteins (SIBLING) are believed to play key roles in the process of biomineralization. Reactionary dentin (RD), formed by odontoblasts in response to external stimuli, differs morphologically from primary dentin (PD). To test our hypothesis that the microscopic changes reflect variations in molecular mechanisms involved in formation of the two forms of dentin, and to characterize RD further, we compared the distributions of four SIBLING proteins [bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteopontin (OPN), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP-1) and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP)] in naturally occurring RD with those in PD. Molars of rats aged 12, 18, 24 and 36 wk were analyzed using immunohistochemistry with antibodies against BSP, OPN, DMP-1, and dentin sialoprotein (a fragment of DSPP). Differences in the distribution of the four SIBLING proteins were evident. Bone sialoprotein, not seen in PD, was consistently observed in RD. Osteopontin, almost absent from PD, was clearly observed in RD. The expression levels of DMP-1 and DSP in RD were lower than in PD. Elevated expression of BSP and OPN, along with a marked decrease of dentin sialoprotein and DMP-1 in RD, suggests a difference in the mechanism of formation of the two forms of dentin.

Substitution of bovine dentine sialoprotein with chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycan chains

Dentine sialoprotein (DSP) represents 5-8% of all non-collagenous proteins present in the tooth, but, together with dentine phosphoprotein, has been shown to be vital for correct tooth formation. Recently, the existence of a highly glycosylated form of porcine DSP has been reported and it was shown to possess glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains. The current investigation confirms that this is also the case for bovine DSP and has further characterized these carbohydrates. Dentine sialoprotein was purified from bovine dentine extracts by anion exchange chromatography and identified by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), western blotting, and mass spectroscopy. An increase in molecular mass was observed, from 120 kDa to greater than 250 kDa, with a corresponding rise in anionic strength. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis and western blotting indicated the presence of chondroitin sulfate GAG chains within these dentine fractions. Further examination using sequential digestion with chondroitinase AC and N-glycosidase cleaved the samples first to 95 kDa and then to 80 kDa, respectively, confirming a high level of glycosylation. These results support the classification of bovine DSP as a proteoglycan, and that the carbohydrate substitutions may contribute to the functional properties of DSP.

A Chondroitin Sulfate Chain Attached to the Bone Dentin Matrix Protein 1 NH2-Terminal Fragment

Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) is an acidic noncollagenous protein shown by gene ablations to be critical for the proper mineralization of bone and dentin. In the extracellular matrix of these tissues DMP1 is present as fragments representing the NH2-terminal (37 kDa) and COOH-terminal (57 kDa) portions of the cDNA-deduced amino acid sequence. During our separation of bone noncollagenous proteins, we observed a high molecular weight, DMP1-related component (designated DMP1-PG). We purified DMP1-PG with a monoclonal anti-DMP1 antibody affinity column. Amino acid analysis and Edman degradation of tryptic peptides proved that the core protein for DMP1-PG is the 37-kDa fragment of DMP1. Chondroitinase treatments demonstrated that the slower migration rate of DMP1-PG is due to the presence of glycosaminoglycan. Quantitative disaccharide analysis indicated that the glycosaminoglycan is made predominantly of chondroitin 4-sulfate. Further analysis on tryptic peptides led us to conclude that a single glycosaminoglycan chain is linked to the core protein via Ser74, located in the Ser74-Gly75 dipeptide, an amino acid sequence specific for the attachment of glycosaminoglycans. Our findings show that in addition to its existence as a phosphoprotein, the NH2-terminal fragment from DMP1 occurs as a proteoglycan. Amino acid sequence alignment analysis showed that the Ser74-Gly75 dipeptide and its flanking regions are highly conserved among a wide range of species from caiman to the Homo sapiens, indicating that this glycosaminoglycan attachment domain has survived an extremely long period of evolution pressure, suggesting that the glycosaminoglycan may be critical for the basic biological functions of DMP1.

Heat shock induces the synthesis of the inflammatory mediator leukotriene B4 in human pulp cells

AIM

To measure the synthesis of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) in cultures of human dental pulp cells induced by heat shock.

METHODOLOGY

Primary pulp cells (PC) and dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) were cultivated under appropriate conditions. For the characterization of PC the expression of dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) was evaluated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Thermal stimulation of cell cultures was performed at temperatures of 37, 38, 39, 40, 42 and 45 degrees C for stimulation times of 5 and 30 s. LTB4 was quantified by reversed-phase high-performance chromatography and differences between the LTB4 concentrations of controls and heat stimulated cells were analysed with Friedman analysis of variances by ranks and multiple comparisons (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Both cell cultures expressed DSPP under the conditions of the present experiment. The analysis revealed significantly enhanced LTB4 synthesis following thermal stimulations at 38, 39, 40, 42 and 45 degrees C compared with unstimulated controls for both PC and DPSC.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated the capability of pulp cells to synthesize the arachidonic acid mediator LTB4 in response to heat shock. LTB4 has the capacity to induce inflammatory reactions and to sensitise afferent nociceptive nerve endings. LTB4 synthesis is induced by minor temperature changes, which are relevant for various clinical situations.

Dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein overexpression during amelogenesis

The gene for dentin sialophosphoprotein produces a single protein that is post-translationally modified to generate two distinct extracellular proteins: dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein. In teeth, dentin sialophosphoprotein is expressed primarily by odontoblast cells, but is also transiently expressed by presecretory ameloblasts. Because of this expression profile it appears that dentin sialophosphoprotein contributes to the early events of amelogenesis, and in particular to those events that result in the formation of the dentino-enamel junction and the adjacent "aprismatic" enamel. Using a transgenic animal approach we have extended dentin sialoprotein or dentin phosphoprotein expression throughout the developmental stages of amelogenesis. Overexpression of dentin sialoprotein results in an increased rate of enamel mineralization, however, the enamel morphology is not significantly altered. In wild-type animals, the inclusion of dentin sialoprotein in the forming aprismatic enamel may account for its increased hardness properties, when compared with bulk enamel. In contrast, the overexpression of dentin phosphoprotein creates "pitted" and "chalky" enamel of non-uniform thickness that is more prone to wear. Disruptions to the prismatic enamel structure are also a characteristic of the dentin phosphoprotein overexpressing animals. These data support the previous suggestion that dentin sialoprotein and dentin phosphoprotein have distinct functions related to tooth formation, and that the dentino-enamel junction should be viewed as a unique transition zone between enamel and the underlying dentin. These results support the notion that the dentin proteins expressed by presecretory ameloblasts contribute to the unique properties of the dentino-enamel junction.

Localization of sulfated sialic acids in the dentinal tubules during tooth formation in mice

Lectin-like properties of the major enamel protein amelogenin suggest that it binds to glycoconjugates in dentinal tubules released at the dentin-enamel junction (DEJ) during enamel formation. Therefore, a detailed mapping of glycosylation in dentinal tubules during tooth formation was undertaken using histochemistry and lectin-binding assays. The tubular content exhibited sialidase-susceptible gamma-metachromasia with Toluidine Blue (pH 2.5) and staining with Alcian Blue (pH 1.0). The presence of sulfate groups was confirmed by benzidine reactions (Bracco-Curti's and tetrazonium assays). Alpha2,3-, alpha2,6- and alpha2,8-sialidases entirely abolished staining with the benzidine reactions. The presence of sialic acids in dentinal tubules was confirmed with the Bial's reaction and sialidase-susceptible binding of Limax flavus lectin suggesting that sialic acids are the major sulfated sugars in the glycoconjguates. Immunostaining with the monoclonal antibody 5-D-4 before and after treatment with chondroitin-4- and chondroitin-6-sulfatase confirmed the presence of keratan sulfate (KS), a sialylated proteoglycan, in dentinal tubules. We suggest that sulfated sialic acids are part of the KSs. The sulfated glycoconjugates are also found in dentin and the DEJ but not in predentin suggesting that amelogenin binds to the sialoconjugate during enamel formation.

Matrix metalloproteinase inhibition impairs the processing, formation and mineralization of dental tissues during mouse molar development

Organotypic cultures of embryonic mouse tooth germs were used to investigate the developmental expression and roles of MMPs in the formation and mineralization of dentin and enamel matrices. The spatially and temporally regulated expression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-20 in developing mouse tooth germs in vivo was maintained in culture. The inhibition of metalloproteinases activity by marimastat altered the morphogenesis and mineralization of the tooth germs associated with an inhibition of the activation of both MMP-20 and MMP-2. MMP inhibition deregulated the molecular processing of two major dental matrix proteins, amelogenin and dentin sialoprotein (DSP). This coincided with their accumulation and the loss of their normal distribution within the extracellular matrix, resulting in a defective mineralization of dentin and enamel matrices. These findings demonstrate the critical role of MMPs in the processing and maturation of the dental matrix.

Porcine dentin sialoprotein is a proteoglycan with glycosaminoglycan chains containing chondroitin 6-sulfate

Dentin sialoprotein (DSP) is a glycoprotein that is critical for proper tooth dentin formation, but little is known about the nature of its carbohydrate attachments and other post-translational modifications. We have isolated DSP from pig dentin and demonstrate that it is a proteoglycan. Polyclonal antibodies were raised in chicken against recombinant pig DSP, and used to identify native DSP in fractions of tooth dentin proteins extracted from developing pig molars. Amino acid analyses and characterization of lysylendopeptidase cleavage products confirmed that the purified protein was DSP, and that Arg391 is at the DSP C terminus. On SDS-PAGE and on urea gels, DSP appeared as a smear extending from 280 to 100 kDa, but in the presence of beta-mercaptoethanol the top of the DSP smear disappeared. The high molecular weight material was likely comprised of covalent DSP dimers connected by a disulfide bridge at Cys205. Oligosaccharides were released from DSP following N- and O-linked glycosidase digestions, but these digestions had little effect on the apparent molecular weight of DSP on SDS-PAGE, when compared with the significant reduction following chondroitinase ABC digestion. Glycosaminoglycanases with assorted glycosaminoglycan (GAG) cleavage specificities coupled with Western analyses of the cleaved GAG "stubs" demonstrated that the DSP GAG attachments contain chondroitin 6-sulfate, but not keratan sulfate, heparan sulfate, chondroitin, or chondroitin 4-sulfate. DSP binds biotin-labeled hyaluronic acid, and such binding is inhibited by the addition of unlabeled hyaluronic acid. We conclude that DSP is a proteoglycan and that GAG attachments are the predominant structural feature of porcine DSP.