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Journal of Dental Research
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RAPID COMMUNICATION

A Novel Role for Twist-1 in Pulp Homeostasis

K.M. Galler1,2, A. Yasue1, A.C. Cavender1, P. Bialek3, G. Karsenty4 and R.N. D’Souza1,*

1 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Baylor College of Dentistry, 3302 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, TX 75246, USA;
2 Department of Restorative Dentistry and Periodontology, University of Regensburg, Germany;
3 Wyeth Research, 87 Cambridge Park Drive, Cambridge, MA, USA; and
4 Dept. of Genetics & Development, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA

Correspondence: * corresponding author, rd'souza{at}bcd.tamhsc.edu

The molecular mechanisms that maintain the equilibrium of odontoblast progenitor cells in dental pulp are unknown. Here we tested whether homeostasis in dental pulp is modulated by Twist-1, a nuclear protein that partners with Runx2 during osteoblast differentiation. Our analysis of Twist-1(+/–) mice revealed phenotypic changes that involved an earlier onset of dentin matrix formation, increased alkaline phosphatase activity, and pulp stones within the pulp. RT-PCR analyses revealed Twist-1 expression in several adult organs, including pulp. Decreased levels of Twist-1 led to higher levels of type I collagen and Dspp gene expression in perivascular cells associated with the pulp stones. In mice heterozygous for both Twist-1 and Runx2 inactivation, the phenotype of pulp stones appeared completely rescued. These findings suggest that Twist-1 plays a key role in restraining odontoblast differentiation, thus maintaining homeostasis in dental pulp. Furthermore, Twist-1 functions in dental pulp are dependent on its interaction with Runx2.

Key Words: Twist-1 • Runx2 • pulp stones • homeostasis • dental stem cells • odontoblast

Journal of Dental Research, Vol. 86, No. 10, 951-955 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/154405910708601007
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