Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

What type of cells does the reduced enamel epithelium secrete?

1. Insulin and glucagon

2. Collagenase and interleukin-1a

3. Salivary amylase and lipase

4. Immunoglobulin and cytokines

The correct answer is: Collagenase and interleukin-1a

The reduced enamel epithelium (REE) plays a crucial role during tooth development and in the process of enamel maturation. One of its key functions is to produce and secrete various signaling molecules, which influence the surrounding tissues during and after tooth eruption. Collagenase and interleukin-1α are important molecules involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix and the modulation of immune responses, respectively. Collagenase can help in remodeling tissues, which is significant during the transition period when the enamel surface is exposed and needs to be integrated into the oral environment. Interleukin-1α, a cytokine, is also produced in many tissues and can promote inflammation and mediate responses to injury or infection. The decreased production of these factors during enamel maturation can impact the development of the surrounding periodontal tissues and may even affect the health of the teeth themselves. Thus, the secretion of collagenase and interleukin-1α by the reduced enamel epithelium demonstrates its involvement not only in enamel formation but also in the broader context of tooth eruption and periodontal integrity. This aligns with the biological importance of these molecular signals in orchestrating the interactions between the tooth and the surrounding tissue during development.