Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
741397610
Link(s) to full text
LAC copy
LAC copy
Author
Stolf, Daiana Paula,1982-
Title
Evaluation of amelotin expression in odontogenic tumors.
Degree
M. Sc. -- University of Toronto, 2009
Publisher
Ottawa : Library and Archives Canada = Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, [2010]
Description
2 microfiches
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
This research project focused on evaluating the spatial distribution of the ameloblast-specific protein Amelotin (AMTN) in clinical cases of odontogenic tumors (OT) and the human ameloblastoma cell line AM-1. Any possible correlation of its expression with specific features of the lesions was expected to provide valuable information regarding the biological function of the protein, which is presently unknown. Immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry, mineralization assays and microarray analysis were performed. Generally, a strong signal was detected in tooth-like structures found in OT, such as the ameloblast layer and calcifying areas mimicking the enamel. Ghost cells present in odontomas and calcifying odontogenic cysts revealed variable signal. 'In vitro', AMTN was immunolocalized to the cytoplasm of AM-1 cells. A slight inhibitory effect on mineralization and a down-regulation of the ameloblast-associated gene ODAM were observed. These results indicate that AMTN is re-expressed in odontogenic tumors, and suggest a possible involvement of AMTN in biomineralization.
ISBN
9780494557822
0494557826