Matrix metalloproteinase activity in deciduous dental pulp

The extracellular matrix components, including collagens, fibronectin and proteoglycans are major tissue proteins, they are responsible for the structural integrity. Extracellular matrix turnover is an event that is tightly regulated, and initiated at least in part, by the regulated secretion of members of a family of matrix metalloproteinases. Much of the coordinate – physiological, or discoordinate - pathological degradation of the extracellular matrix is catalyzed by a class of proteases known as the matrix metalloproteinases. The aim of the present study was to examine the matrix metalloproteinase activity of the deciduous dental pulp in the normal conditions, and conditions of physiological resorption of the root. To examine the matrix metalloproteinase activity in the phase of root resorption, a biochemical - enzymatic study is performed consisting of 40 clinical intact deciduous teeth, grouped according to the degree of resorption in two groups: 20 deciduous teeth without signs of physiological resorption, and second group - 20 deciduous teeth with physiological resorption. Generally total pulp enzymatic activity of the deciduous teeth decreases with the beginning of the processes of physiological resorption of the root. But enzymes responsible for tissue destructive changes - like matrix metalloproteinases, by initiation and progression of physiological resorption increases significantly