HEALTHY TEETH
A system of opposing genetic forces determines why mamals develop a single row of teeth,while sharks sport several,according to a study published in the journal of science.When completely understood, the genetic programme described in the study may help guide effort to regrow missing teeth and prevent cleft palate,one of the most common birth defects.
gene expression is the process by which information stored in genes is converted into proteins that make up the body'sstructure and carry its message.As the baby's face takes shape in the womb,the deveopment of teeth and palate are tightly controlled in space and time by gene expression.Related abnormalities result in the development of teeth outside of the normal row,missing teeth and cleft palate,and the new insights suggest ways to combact these malformations.
The current study adds an important details to the understaning of the interplay between biochemicals that induce teeth formation,and others that restrict it,to result in the correct pattern.specfically,researchers discovered that turning off a single gene in mice resulted in development of extra teeth,next to and inside of their first molars.While the study was in mice ,past studies have shown that the involved biochemical palyers are active in human as well.
