Is there more to enamel matrix proteins than biomineralization?

Enamel proteins are proteins synthesized by ameloblast cells. These protein s are secreted into the enamel extracellular matrix where they nucleate and regulate the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals to form the mineralized ena mel covering the crown of the teeth. Although the exact role of these prote ins in enamel mineralization is just beginning to be elucidated, new studie s suggest that these proteins might have functions outside enamel formation . Furthermore, extracts of enamel proteins are currently being used to rege nerate periodontal tissues destroyed by periodontal disease and new studies suggest that they might have chondrogenic and osteogenic properties. These new functions of enamel proteins will be the focus of this review. (C) 200 1 Elsevier Science B.V. /International Society of Matrix Biology. All right s reserved.