Transforming growth factor-beta1 negatively regulates crystallin expression in teeth.

Previously, we have reported that targeted overexpression of transforming growth factor (TGF) beta1 in the teeth of the transgenic mice (dTGF-beta1) results in a novel tooth phenotype phenomimicking the most prevalent tooth disorders in human. This phenotype was associated with discoloration and attrition of teeth due to defective mineralization. Here, we report a novel expression of crystallin family members in developing mouse teeth and its regulation by TGF-beta1 in these transgenic mice. AlphaB- and beta-crystallins were found to be elevated in dTGF-beta1 mouse teeth, whereas gamma-crystallin (gammaB, gammaC, and gammaF), a marker of cell differentiation, was significantly reduced. Because crystallins are believed to be stress-related proteins, their expression in teeth implicates them in a similar role because teeth are constantly subjected to physical friction and temperature fluctuations.