Tooth-Matrix Biomarkers to Reconstruct Critical Periods of Brain Plasticity

Trends Neurosci. 2017 Jan;40(1):1-3. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2016.11.003. Epub 2016 Dec 27.

Abstract

Developmental brain plasticity involves complex, time-dependent dynamic molecular interactions that cannot be observed directly in humans. We propose that the shared evolutionary homology of teeth and the neurosensory system, and the archival nature of dentine microstructure, allows the development of 'biologic hard drives' that can characterize perinatal temporal dynamics in neuroplasticity.

Keywords: biomarker; brain plasticity; critical period; teeth.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Evolution
  • Brain / growth & development*
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Dental Enamel / growth & development
  • Dental Enamel / metabolism
  • Dentin / growth & development
  • Dentin / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology*
  • Tooth / growth & development*
  • Tooth / metabolism*