Orally Administered Methionine Alters the Growth of Tooth Germs in Newborn Rats

The study investigated the effects of methionine on the growth of tooth germs in newborn rats. Pups were divided into three groups: no methionine, 0.1 g methionine, and 0.2 g methionine per 100 g body weight. By day 15, there was no statistical difference in body weight among the groups, but group III had a 17.5% mortality rate and some pups showed inadequate hair growth. Group II had heavier incisor and molar tooth germs and higher hydroxyproline content in incisor germs compared to the other groups. Collagen synthesis was highest in group III, while calcium content was consistently higher in group II. The study concluded that methionine intake altered the composition of developing tooth germs, with different effects on incisor and molar germs.