Polymorphism in the CAVI gene, salivary properties and dental caries

Abstract

Objectives: Carbonic anhydrase (CA) VI is supposed to take part in pH or buffering capacity regulation, which can influence the caries risk of an individual. Its expression in the saliva can be modified by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). The aim was to investigate SNP in the CA VI gene in relation to active dental caries and physiochemical properties of saliva.

Materials and methods: One hundred and thirty participants aged 11–16 years were involved. Clinical examinations were carried out using standardized WHO criteria, DMFT/DMFS and white spot lesions score was evaluated. Saliva samples were examined for salivary properties and CA VI concentration. DNA evaluated in the investigation was extracted from the buccal smear. Three SNP within CAVI gene (rs2274327; rs2274328; rs2274333) were selected and genotyping was performed.

Results: In the active caries group, the mean CAVI concentration was significantly lower than in caries free group (p = .014). No association between increased or decreased risk of caries and analysed SNPs was found. There were some significant relations concerning SNPs and salivary buffer capacity and flow rate in rs2274327 and rs2274328.

Conclusions: Polymorphism in the CAVI gene can affect salivary properties but there is no direct connection with dental caries.

Keywords:

• Caries susceptibility
• risk factors
• buffer capacity
• gustin
• saliva

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The authors acknowledge Warsaw Medical University, Faculty of Dentistry for financial support. The study was prepared as a part of a scientific project realised in years 2017–2018, financed from the statutory subsidy obtained by the Faculty of Dentistry [grant no. 1S17/PM1/17].