Association of taste receptor gene polymorphisms with dental caries.

This study was performed to evaluate the interplay between dental caries, nutritional status, and genetic polymorphisms in TAS1R1 and TAS1R2 (taste receptor, type 1, member 1 and 2) in preschool children and pre-adolescents. We included 525 subjects (306 preschool children and 219 pre-adolescents). Parents/caregivers answered a self-administered questionnaire about their children's systemic health, characteristics, oral hygiene habits, and diet.

Oestrogen receptor alpha, growth hormone receptor, and developmental defect of enamel.

Background: Oestrogen (ES) and growth hormone (GH) are hormones that may have a role in caries aetiology and developmental defects of enamel (DDE) since their receptors (ERs and GHR) are expressed during amelogenesis.

Aim: To evaluate whether genetic polymorphisms in the genes that codify the ERα (ESR1) and GHR are associated with caries experience and DDE in children.

Design: Two hundred and sixteen children of both genders, aged 9-12 years, were examined and classified according to caries and DDE phenotype.