Structural and ultra-structural features of the first mandibular molars of young rats submitted to pre and postnatal protein deficiencies

• Published in: The open dentistry journal Vol. 3; no. 1; pp. 125 - 131
• Main Authors: Gonçalves, L A, Boldrini, S C, Capote, T S O, Binotti, C B, Azeredo, R A, Martini, D T, Rosenberg, B, Bautz, W G, Liberti, E A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United Arab Emirates Bentham Open 09.06.2009
• Subjects: collagen fibers; electron microscopy; molar tooth; Protein malnutrition; rat
• ISSN: 1874-2106; 1874-2106
• DOI: 10.2174/1874210600903010125

The effects of protein malnutrition, both in utero and prior to weaning, on formation of the first mandibular molars were evaluated by phase-contrast and electron microscopy in rats. The nourished group (GI) received a diet that included 20% casein, while the malnourished group (GII) received 5% casein. The first mandibular molars from GII exhibited low density of cells and odontoblasts, which lacked regular organization compared with molars from GI. In addition, a difference in collagen type was observed between the groups, with a prevalence of Type III collagen fibers detected in the dentin, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone of GII, and a prevalence of Type I collagen fibers in GI. Finally, examination of surface area in molar sagittal sections indicated 30% less dentin in GII, compared with GI. Our results suggest that structural and ultra-structural features of the dentin-pulp complex and periodontal components of rat molars are affected by protein deficiency.