The role of AMY1 gene copy number variation in dental caries susceptibility: insights from a Turkish population

Abstract

Objective: Dental caries is a multifactorial disease influenced by environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors. Recent studies suggest that variations in the AMY1 gene, which encodes salivary amylase, may contribute to caries susceptibility. This study investigates the relationship between AMY1 gene copy number variation (CNV) and dental caries in a Turkish population. Method: A total of 154 participants (63% female; mean age 19.6 ± 1.4 years) were included. Epithelial cells in inner cheek tissues were collected from volunteers using swabs, and the collected samples were preserved and stored in a DNA stabilization solution. The demographic characteristics of the volunteers were recorded, and DMFT and DMFS index scores were documented on the provided forms. The AMY1 gene CNVs were determined using a Real-time polymerase reaction device. The TaqMan chemistry, which comprises quantitative real-time PCR reactions utilizing a dual TaqMan kit, was utilized in this analysis process. Statistical analyses included the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests for group comparisons, Spearman’s correlation analysis, and binomial logistic regression to evaluate associations between AMY1 CNVs and dental caries indices. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed between AMY1 CNVs and DMFT or DMFS indices (p > 0.05). However, significant associations were found between daily tooth brushing frequency and caries indices (Cramer’s V = 0.219, p < 0.05), as well as between preferred beverage consumption and caries indices (Cramer’s V = 0.219, p < 0.05). Other factors, including gender, dental floss and mouthwash use, and tongue brushing, did not show statistically significant associations (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Although AMY1 CNVs were not significantly associated with caries indices, the findings highlight the complex interplay of genetic, behavioral, and dietary factors in caries development. This study emphasizes the critical role of oral hygiene and dietary habits in caries prevention and underscores the need for further research on genetic contributions to oral health. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.