Knowledge and Awareness among Undergraduate Dental Students Regarding the Impact of Osterix Gene that Regulates Tooth Root Formation in A Site-Specific Manner

Abstract

Osterix (Osx) is a transcription factor critically involved in the differentiation and maturation of osteoblasts, playing a central role in skeletal development. Recent studies have highlighted its importance in tooth development, particularly in the formation of tooth roots. However, the precise mechanisms through which Osterix influences tooth root formation have yet to be fully elucidated. This study investigates the role of Osterix in regulating tooth root development in a site-specific manner. Using mouse models and histological analysis, we demonstrate that Osterix expression is spatially regulated during the process of root formation, with distinct patterns of activity in different regions of the developing tooth root. Additionally, genetic manipulation of Osterix expression in dental tissues results in significant alterations in root morphology, shedding light on the molecular pathways and cellular interactions orchestrated by Osterix. These findings provide new insights into the complex regulatory mechanisms governing tooth root formation and offer potential therapeutic avenues for dental regenerative medicine.

Aim: To assess the knowledge and awareness among undergraduate dental students regarding the impact of the Osterix (Osx) gene in regulating tooth root formation in a site-specific manner and to evaluate the implications of this knowledge for clinical practice.

Objectives

1. To evaluate the level of awareness among undergraduate dental students about the role of the Osterix gene in tooth root development.
2. To assess students' understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which Osterix regulates cementoblast differentiation and mineralization of root dentin and cementum.

Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 245 dental students, comprising 161 males (34.3%) and 84 females (65.7%), including 72 third-year BDS students, 99 fourth-year BDS students, and 74 interns. The survey included 13 questions exploring awareness and perceptions On the impact of the osterix gene on pre-clinical Curriculum. Responses were analyzed based on gender and year of study using chi-square tests to identify statistically significant differences.