Modularly Defined Stilbenoids to Strengthen Tooth Bonding
Official title: Modularly Defined Stilbenoids as Functional Dental Biopolymers
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11449047 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A science team is testing plant-based biopolymers to make dental fillings stick better and last longer, helping people with cavities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 3, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $601,409 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DE035529-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11449047 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients needing dental resin restorations who are open to participating in materials and bonding studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without resin-based restorations or those not meeting study-specific criteria may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to improve how resin fillings bond to dentin by using renewable plant-derived polymers that strengthen the dentin matrix and adhesive interface. Researchers will study how these biopolymers modify dentin tissue to resist debonding and decay at the restoration edge. The work combines materials science and dental biology to create a more durable, biocompatible adhesive system for everyday dental care. If successful, the approach could reduce the need for retreatments and extend the life of resin restorations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could experience longer-lasting fillings and fewer repeat procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in dentin biomodification shows promise, but this approach uses plant-derived biopolymers for enhanced bonding, which is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bedran-Russo, Ana Karina B — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Bedran-Russo, Ana Karina B
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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.