Do matrix metalloproteinase and cathepsin K inhibitors work synergistically to reduce dentin erosion?

The inhibition of endogenous dentinal MMPs and catK increases the acid resistance of human dentin but without an apparent synergistic effect. The inhibition of MMPs and catK is equally effective either before or after the acid challenge.

Significantly lower EDL was found in the groups ODN, PHEN, and COM than in the control group (all p<0.05), while no significant difference in EDL was found among the groups ODN, PHEN, and COM (all p>0.05). The application sequence showed no significant effect on the EDL of the tested groups (p=0.310). A significantly thicker DOM was observed in the group ODN than in the control group regardless of the application sequence (both p<0.05). The treatment with ODN, PHEN, and COM inhibited the gelatinolytic activity by approximately 46.32%, 58.6%, and 74.56%, respectively. Conclusions: The inhibition of endogenous dentinal MMPs and catK increases the acid resistance of human dentin but without an apparent synergistic effect. The inhibition of MMPs and catK is equally effective either before or after the acid challenge.