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Evolution and development of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath

  1. Xianghong Luan,
  2. Yoshihiro Ito,
  3. Thomas G.H. Diekwisch*

Article first published online: 31 JAN 2006

DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20674

Issue

Developmental Dynamics

Developmental Dynamics

Special Issue: Craniofacial Development Special Issue

Volume 235, Issue 5, pages 1167–1180, May 2006

Additional Information

How to Cite

Luan, X., Ito, Y. and Diekwisch, T. G.H. (2006), Evolution and development of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath. Dev. Dyn., 235: 1167–1180. doi: 10.1002/dvdy.20674

Author Information

  1. Brodie Laboratory for Craniofacial Genetics and Department of Oral Biology, The University of Illinois College of Dentistry, Chicago, Illinois

*Department of Oral Biology, Director, Brodie Laboratory for Craniofacial Genetics, UIC College of Dentistry, 801 South Paulina Street, MC 841, Chicago, IL 60612

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 19 APR 2006
  2. Article first published online: 31 JAN 2006
  3. Manuscript Accepted: 23 NOV 2005

Funded by

  • National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research. Grant Number: DE15425

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Keywords:

  • periodontium;
  • development;
  • cementum;
  • apoptosis;
  • Darwinian medicine

Abstract

Periodontal regeneration and tissue engineering has re-awakened interest in the role of Hertwig's Epithelial Root Sheath (HERS), an epithelial tissue layer first discovered in amphibians more than a century ago. Using developmental, evolutionary, and cell biological approaches, we have, therefore, performed a careful analysis of the role of HERS in root formation and compared our data with clinical findings. Our developmental studies revealed HERS as a transient structure assembled in the early period of root formation and elongation and, subsequently, fenestrated and reduced to epithelial rests of Malassez (ERM). Our comparative evolutionary studies indicated that HERS fenestration was closely associated with the presence of a periodontal ligament and a gomphosis-type attachment apparatus in crocodilians and mammals. Based on these studies, we are proposing that HERS plays an important role in the regulation and maintenance of periodontal ligament space and function. Additional support for this hypothesis was rendered by our meta-analysis of recent clinical reports related to HERS function. Developmental Dynamics 235:1167–1180, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

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