Role of Homeobox Genes in Tooth Morphogenesis: A Review

In oral cavity, disturbances due to genetic alterations may range from lack of tooth development to morphological defects. Due to technical advances in genetic engineering and molecular biology, valuable information regarding dentofacial growth could be studied in detailed manner. This helped us to explain the aetiology and pathogenesis of many dentofacial disorders. The success in treatment lies first in determining the aetiology of tooth anomalies and finally differentiating the effect of genes and environment on the orofacial diseases of that particular individual. Several genes belonging to class II homeobox families are expressed during odontogenesis however homeobox genes are not directly imvolved in tooth formation as they are not directly expressed in the first branchial arch derivatives.