Lessons from the Amelogenin Knockout Mice

Although others and we have earlier reported that the amelogenins play critical roles in proper enamel formation, the in vivo functions of each of the amelogenin isoforms have not been clearly defined because of their heterogeneity and complexity. This chapter will review the current information on the functions of amelogenin splice isoforms, full length amelogenin and leucine rich amelogenin peptide (LRAP), in enamel formation. We will also discuss the emerging evidence for the additional role of LRAP as a signaling molecule in mesenchymal cells of the periodontal tissues. We believe that further insights into the signaling pathway modulated by the multifunctional amelogenin proteins will lead to development of new therapeutic approaches to treat dental diseases and disorders.