The protein that prevents loose teeth
A frequent problem in orthodontic practice is that the teeth do not remain in their new positions. Can a protein prevent teeth from moving in the mouth?
In the body, some proteins works as small keys that unlock cells and tell them to perform a specific task. Now, research at the Faculty of Dentistry shows that the protein, adiponectin can perhaps affect how a tooth shifts in the mouth. Fellow Sigrid Haugen and co-workers have, investigated this phenomenon.
Adiponectin—an important protein
Signal molecules that serve as keys to initiate processes in our bodies are called hormones. Hormones are produced in many parts of the body. For example, the pancreas produces insulin, which is important for blood sugar regulation. The ovaries and testicles produce sex hormones, and the thyroid gland produces two growth hormones. It is common knowledege that the glands, bone marrow and some areas of the brain produce hormones. However, the fact that fat tissue produces hormones, and is therefore an endocrine organ, is not equally known. Fat tissue actually produces many different hormones. The first to be described were leptin and adiponectin.