Functionalized epigallocatechin gallate copolymer inhibit dentin matrices degradation: Mechanical, solubilized telopeptide and proteomic assays

Organic dentin matrices, composed mainly of type I collagen and non-collagenous proteins, contain proteolytic enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cysteine cathepsins, developmentally secreted as latent proenzymes. In adhesive procedures and during microbial metabolism of carbohydrates, when there is a drop of pH in the dentinal microenvironment, these proteases are uncovered and activated, and are regarded as contributors to dentin degradation.
Source: Dental Materials - Category: Materials Science Authors: Source Type: research