Excess ameloblastin linked to patchy, weak tooth enamel
Enamel with overexpressed ameloblastin
This project looks at whether too much of a tooth protein called ameloblastin causes the chalky, demarcated weak enamel seen in children with molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11170037 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research looks at why some children's teeth develop sharp-edged, chalky patches instead of normal hard enamel. The team will compare affected and nearby unaffected enamel and use lab models, including mice, to see how excess ameloblastin changes enamel formation and the balance of enzymes that break down tooth matrix. They will measure gene activity and chromatin accessibility (using methods like ATAC-seq) to map the molecular pathways behind the defects. The goal is to identify mechanisms that could point toward prevention or better treatments for MIH.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children with molar-incisor hypomineralization (visible demarcated chalky or yellow patches on primary or permanent teeth) would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical participation or sample donation.
Not a fit: People without MIH or whose enamel problems are due to fluorosis or unrelated inherited enamel disorders may not benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to targeted ways to prevent or treat MIH, reducing pain, sensitivity, and cavities for affected children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal work shows that both lack of and excess ameloblastin alter enamel, so this project builds on mouse findings though direct causes of human MIH are not yet proven.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chun, Yong-Hee Patricia — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Chun, Yong-Hee Patricia
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 below.