Taurodontism and the presence of an extra Y chromosome: study of 47,XYY males and analytical review.

Abstract

A sample of 47,XYY males was examined for taurodontism to provide further information on the effects of chromosome aneuploidies on the trait. The etiology of taurodontism is reviewed in light of recent findings. Two models have been put forward to explain the association of taurodontism with chromosome abnormalities: (1) Taurodontism results from a generalized disruption of developmental homeostasis, and (2) the development of taurodontism reflects a more specific action of the genes. The recent findings in 45,X females indicate that this chromosome aneuploidy does not have any effect on the development of taurodontism, in contrast to the findings of increased frequency of the trait in individuals with extra X chromosomes. The present results in 47,XYY males suggest that the presence of an extra Y chromosome does not cause an increase in the expression of taurodontism. It is concluded that the observed variation in the occurrence of taurodontism in individuals with sex chromosomes aneuploidies does not corroborate the hypothesis of disrupted homeostasis. Instead, the findings indicate that more specific action of gene(s) on the X chromosome is involved. We suggest that the effect of the Y chromosome on growth of both enamel and dentin, possibly in a regulative way, could be involved in the balanced growth of dental structures in 47,XYY males.

• Authors: L Alvesalo, J Varrela
• Journal: Human biology (Hum Biol) Vol. 63 Issue 1 Pg. 31-8 (Feb 1991) ISSN: 0018-7143 [Print] United States
• PMID: 2004742 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adult
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Molar (abnormalities)
• Radiography, Panoramic
• Tooth Abnormalities (classification, genetics)
• XYY Karyotype (classification, diagnosis)