Genes that determine tooth shape have been identified
Scientists found substantial tooth differences between ethnicities.
Genetic variants that determine the shape of your teeth, including a gene inherited from Neanderthals, have been identified.
Scientists found substantial tooth differences between ethnicities, potentially due in part to a gene inherited from Neanderthals that was only found in study participants of European origin.
The international team, led by researchers at University College London, the Open University, Fudan University in China, Aix-Marseille University in France and National University of La Plata in Argentina identified 18 genome regions that influence the size and shape of different groups of teeth, 17 of which had not been previously linked to tooth dimensions.
We have now identified numerous genes that impact the development of our teeth, some of which are responsible for differences between ethnic groups.
Dr Kaustubh Adhikari
Co-lead author Dr Kaustubh Adhikari (UCL Genetics, Evolution & Environment and The Open University) said: “Teeth can tell us a great deal about human evolution, as well-preserved ancient teeth are particularly important to archaeologists, shedding light on milestones such as when we transitioned to cooked food and human tooth sizes began to shrink.
“But little is known about the genetic basis of variation within the modern human population on tooth size and shape, partly due to challenges in measuring teeth. We have now identified numerous genes that impact the development of our teeth, some of which are responsible for differences between ethnic groups.”
The study used data from 882 volunteers in Colombia, of mixed European, Native American and African ancestry, including dental crown measurements (dimensions of the part of the tooth visible above the gums), derived from 3D scans of dental plaster casts. The researchers compared these measurements with the participants’ genetic information in a genome-wide association study, using an analysis approach called multiomics that brings together numerous data sources.
One of the novel associations was on a gene believed to be inherited from Neanderthals due to interbreeding with ancient humans. This genetic variant, which contributes to the biological pathway of tooth development, was only found in those of European descent, and carriers of the variant have thinner incisors (thickness of the incisors, the eight teeth situated at the front of the mouth, was measured from back to front).