Genetic and epigenetic regulation of craniofacial development.

This paper reviews a series of odontometric, anthropometric and cephalometric investigations of genetic and epigenetic regulation of dental, occlusal and craniofacial development. The results show that genes encoded with the X and Y chromosomes regulate the development of tooth crowns and roots. The Y chromosome seems to affect general somatic growth by regulating both cell function and mitotic activity. The effects of the X chromosome seem to be more restricted and include influences on the growth of cartilaginous structures and dental enamel. The findings also indicate that high masticatory stress promotes jaw growth and decreases occlusal variation, supporting the hypothesis that masticatory activity regulates occlusal and craniofacial development. In addition, the findings suggest that nerve growth may affect bone growth in the craniofacial skeleton.