Immunolocalization of gamma-carboxyglutamic acid-containing proteins in developing molar tooth germs of the rat.

The localization of dentin gamma-carboxyglutamic acid containing proteins (DGP's) was examined in rat molar tooth germs at various stages of development by immunostaining with the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method. Odontoblasts and their processes stained positive, whereas all other cells were negative. No staining was found in predentin. Dentin stained only after a mild demineralization. The results support the concept that DGP's are deposited by odontoblasts directly into the mineralizing dentin.