Abstract
Methods/Materials
To simulate an environment similar to that in dental enamel, amelogenin was applied to a titanium surfaces submerged in SCS's, solutions that resemble physiologic fluid and allow for the formation of calcium phosphate crystals. The samples were then treated with various agents to improve surface reactivity.
Results
At certain concentrations, amelogenin had a significant affect on the morphology of calcium phosphate crystals. It is not known which conditions are favorable, but the data goes to show that dose-depentent amelogenin has an effect on the topography of calcium phosphate crystals.
Conclusions/Discussion
The spectacular effects of amelogenin on apatite crystals sustain the idea that amelogenin facilitates the formation of enamel crystals. Amelogenin was found to have a significant, elongationg effect on the morphology of Calcium-Phosphate crystals. Furthermore, the effects of amelogenin on the transformation of Calcium-Phosphate crystals is reliant on certain aspects, such as the concentration of amelogenin and the type of crystal.
This project is investigating mechanisms in dental enamel and potential development of a novel biomaterial.
Science Fair Project done By Dmitry Kravchenko