Pathogenesis of Molar Hypomineralisation: Hypomineralised 6-Year Molars Contain Traces of Fetal Serum Albumin

Abstract

Molar Hypomineralisation (MH) is gaining cross-sector attention as a global health problem, making deeper enquiry into its prevention a research priority. However, causation and pathogenesis of MH remain unclear despite 100 years of investigation into “chalky” dental enamel. Contradicting aetiological dogma involving disrupted enamel-forming cells (ameloblasts), our earlier biochemical analysis of chalky enamel opacities implicated extracellular serum albumin in enamel hypomineralisation. This study sought evidence that the albumin found in chalky enamel reflected causal events during enamel development rather than later association with pre-existing enamel porosity. Hypothesising that blood..