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 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 start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $463,838 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE031352-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-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
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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.