Exploring plant-based materials to improve dental restorations
Official title: Modularity in Oligomeric Phenol Chemistry for Biomodulation of Dental Structures
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10771302 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new plant-based ingredients that could make dental adhesives and fillings stick better and last longer, which means better treatments for people with tooth decay.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,563 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032547-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10771302 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing dental procedures that involve restorations or adhesives for tooth decay.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no current dental issues or those who do not require restorative dental work may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of novel plant-derived compounds to enhance the effectiveness of dental adhesives and restorations. By focusing on specific classes of oligomeric phenols, the study aims to improve the bonding and longevity of dental materials used in treating tooth decay. The approach involves examining how these compounds interact with collagen in dentin, which is crucial for the structural integrity of teeth. Patients may benefit from improved dental treatments that last longer and perform better.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more durable and effective dental restorations, reducing the need for repeat procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using plant-based materials for medical applications, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pauli, Guido F — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pauli, Guido F
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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.