Investigating how a specific receptor affects tooth repair processes

Role of complement receptor C5L2 in reparative dentinogenesis

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11042184

This study is looking at how a specific receptor in our body helps repair teeth damaged by cavities, and it aims to find new ways to improve treatments for dental issues that affect many people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11042184 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the complement receptor C5L2 in the formation of reparative dentin, which is crucial for repairing teeth affected by dental caries. The study examines how inflammation and the complement system influence the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) into odontoblasts, the cells responsible for forming dentin. By exploring these cellular and molecular mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for enhancing tooth repair and regeneration. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for dental caries and related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing dental caries or related dental issues.

Not a fit: Patients with no dental caries or those who have already undergone extensive dental restoration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance tooth repair and regeneration, improving dental health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of the complement system in inflammation is well-established, the specific investigation of C5L2 in tissue regeneration is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.