Creating bioengineered teeth using stem cells
Official title: Bioengineered 3D tooth germs for tooth regeneration in vitro and in vivo
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11139200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to grow back teeth using special stem cells, and it's designed for anyone who has lost a tooth and is looking for a natural solution to help regenerate their smile.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | September 4, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $443,576 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE032720-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing tooth loss or severe dental decay who are interested in innovative regenerative treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that prevent the use of stem cell therapies or those who are not suitable candidates for dental procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a method to regenerate teeth using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). The approach involves creating a specialized 3D environment that supports the growth and differentiation of these stem cells into tooth-forming cells. By co-culturing these cells, the researchers aim to mimic natural tooth development, potentially leading to effective treatments for tooth loss. The study utilizes natural polymers to create a scaffold that closely resembles the body's own tissues, enhancing compatibility and effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking solution for tooth regeneration, offering patients a biological alternative to traditional dental implants.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been successful applications of stem cell technology in animal models for tooth regeneration, this specific approach in humans is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Miqin — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Miqin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.