NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how a specific factor from stem cells can reduce dental pain.

Official title: Evaluation of the Role of Macrophage Migratory Inhibitory Factor (MIF) in mediating Stem Cell Analgesia in a Model of Orofacial Pain

Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10992784 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how special stem cells from teeth might help reduce dental pain caused by infections, and it's for anyone suffering from tooth pain who wants to know if new treatments could make a difference.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project startJanuary 1, 2023
Project endDecember 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$463,838
NIH project number5R01DE031352-03
Project IDNIH-10992784 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing dental pain due to apical periodontitis.

Less likely to help

Patients with dental pain not related to apical periodontitis may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores the potential of human Stem Cells of Apical Papilla (hSCAP) to alleviate dental pain caused by apical periodontitis. The study aims to understand how these stem cells can inhibit pain signals in the nervous system, specifically targeting trigeminal neurons involved in pain perception. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 to modify stem cells and testing their effects in both laboratory and animal models, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind stem cell-induced pain relief.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for patients suffering from dental pain.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using hSCAP for dental pain is novel, similar studies have shown promise in using stem cells for pain management.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Hlth Science Center
    San Antonio, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ruparel, Nikita — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
  • Study coordinator: Ruparel, Nikita

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.