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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 February 2011
Because of its significant potential in controlling key steps of apatite mineralization, recombinant amelogenin has been applied in different in vitro systems for the synthesis of uniquely ordered composite material similar to enamel. Here we summarize the results of a series of experiments, in which mineral deposition took place on the exposed surface of enamel from extracted human third molars soaked in calcium phosphate solution, in the presence of amelogenin and fluoride. Analysis of crystal size and morphology revealed that in the presence of both amelogenin (50-100 μg/mL) and fluoride (1 ppm), bundles of oriented rod- like fluoridated apatite crystals were formed creating a dense coating on the enamel substrate. Such organized bundles were not formed at low concentrations of rP172 (< 30 μg/mL). Preparation of such ordered nanocomposites provides a promising approach for development of new generation of dental restorative materials with improved esthetic and mechanical properties.