Introduction
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are special molecules in dentistry that show great promise for the future. These proteins, also known as glycoproteins, are remarkable fillers. They have a significant role in periodontal regeneration (regrowing gum tissues), filling bone defects, and enhancing dental implants. The article talks about the bone morphogenetic proteins, their role, and their importance in dentistry.
What Is the Chemical Structure of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins?
The term BMP, short for bone morphogenetic protein, was coined in 1965 by Urist and colleagues. They were studying the active elements in demineralized bone and bone extracts. These substances were found to have the ability to trigger bone formation in places where it does not normally occur, like muscles or under the skin. Later, in 1972, Reddy and Huggins discovered that bone extracts could also promote bone formation under the skin. In 1988, scientists led by Wozney made a breakthrough. They isolated the first BMPs and studied their genetic information, complementary DNA (cDNAs), essentially cloning them.
In the human body, there are about 20 different types of BMPs. These BMPs are made up of two parts (dimeric molecules) and are powerful because of a specific chemical bond called an intermolecular disulfide bond. Each part called a monomeric subunit, consists of approximately 120 building blocks known as amino acids, which include seven cysteine residues. These structures are essential for BMPs to carry out their vital functions in the human body.
How BMPs Are Classified?
Bone morphogenetic proteins are grouped into distinct families based on their nature. The classification includes:
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1st Group Family: BMP-2, and BMP-4.
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2nd Group Family: BMP-3, BMP-3B, and growth differentiating factor-10 (GDF-10).
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3rd Group Family: BMP-5, BMP-6, BMP-7, and BMP-8.
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4th Group Family: GDF-5, GDF-6, GDF-7, and cartilage-derived morphogenetic proteins 1, 2, and 3.
Among these BMPs, BMP-1 stands apart. Unlike the others, BMP-1 is not a member of the BMP family; rather, it is a special enzyme known as procollagen C proteinase. BMP-1 is given this name because of its significant role. It plays a crucial part in processing soluble procollagen, assembling insoluble collagen fibers, and contributing to the formation of the extracellular matrix. This enzyme is distinct from other BMPs and has vital functions in the body's structural framework.
What Are BMPs and What Is Their Role in Dentistry?
Bone morphogenetic proteins are special proteins in the body that act like building blocks. They belong to a family of proteins called growth factor-beta. These proteins are like architects, essential for creating and shaping the bones. During early development in the womb, BMPs play a crucial role. They guide special cells in the embryo to become bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and connective tissue-forming cells (chondroblasts). This process is vital for the formation of strong bones and tissues in the human body.
In dentistry, BMPs have become incredibly important. With advancements in dental treatments, especially in periodontal regeneration and filling gaps in the jawbone, BMPs have shown great potential. They are also used in dental implants to ensure they become a natural part of the jawbone. In reconstructive biology, BMPs are used to improve outcomes for patients. They help in predicting the success of gum treatments, aid in regenerating bones, and contribute to the long-term success of dental implants. In simpler terms, BMPs are like the master builders, ensuring our teeth and bones stay healthy and strong.
What Are the Functions of Bone Morphogenic Proteins?
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Regulating Bone Cell Formation: BMPs control the activity of bone-forming cells in the body, known as osteoblasts.
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Guiding Cell Movement (Chemotaxis): They help cells move to specific locations in the body.
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Facilitating Cell Attachment: BMPs assist cells in sticking to surfaces, especially through fibronectin.
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Promoting Cell Replication (Mitosis): They play a role in the process of cell division and replication.
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Directing Bone Cell Differentiation (Osteoblasts): BMPs guide the transformation of cells into bone-forming osteoblasts.
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Regulating Enzyme Activity (Alkaline Phosphatase): They control the activity of enzymes, such as alkaline phosphatase, crucial for bone health.
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Aiding in Bone Mineralization: BMPs are involved in the production of osteocalcin, necessary for bone mineralization.
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In Tooth Development: BMPs are essential in the formation of teeth, including dental epithelium and supporting structures.
Specific BMPs and Their Roles:
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BMP-2 and BMP-4: Research focuses on using BMP-2 and BMP-4 to stimulate cell differentiation in dental research. BMP-2 is found in the jawbone during tooth root development.
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BMP-3 and BMP-7: BMP-3 and BMP-7 are known as "immune" BMPs. They play a role in forming supporting structures for teeth, including periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. BMP-3 also contributes to the formation of cementoblasts, the cells lining the tooth root.
What Is the Scope of BMPs in Various Fields of Dentistry?
The scope of BMPs in various fields of dentistry includes:
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Periodontal Regeneration: In modern periodontal treatments, scientists are studying BMP-2, BMP-3 (osteogenin), and BMP-7 (OP-1) to enhance gum regeneration. The first human study involved BMP-3 combined with demineralized bone allograft in a submerged tooth model, proving successful. Researchers are focusing on these BMPs for better gum healing.
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Jaw Bone Defects: Scientists are exploring human BMP, a lab-made protein, to fix various tooth-related problems like intrabony defects, supra-alveolar defects, and tooth root furcation defects. The research shows that BMP enhances periodontal regeneration, even in severe cases where the tooth is fused to the bone, making it immobile. This suggests BMP’s potential in improving tooth mobility and overall oral health.
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Dental Implants: In recent research using dog models, titanium implants coated with BMP were studied for about three months. Scientists examined these implants closely under a microscope. The results showed abundant new bone formation around the BMP-coated implants. This finding holds promising potential for dental implants in the future.
These specially coated dental implants not only fuse well with the bone but also aid in faster healing after implant surgery. While these results are exciting in animal studies, further experiments and evidence in humans are needed to fully explore this potential in implant dentistry.
Conclusion
Many dental experts consider BMPs ideal for regenerating tooth-bound jawbones. While human experiments are limited (with more success in animal models), these proteins show great potential. Adequate bone mass is vital for the stability of dental implants. Utilizing bone morphogenic protein, it assist in regenerating bone mass, thereby restoring the strength of your jaw and significantly enhancing the success rate of your dental implants. They could revolutionize bone regeneration in dentistry and significantly improve the long-term success of dental implants.
