SEMA7a and how teeth harden, grow roots, and develop nerve supply
SEMA7a regulation of tooth mineralization, root elongation, and innervation
Researchers are looking at whether the protein SEMA7a helps teeth harden, grow roots, and develop nerve supply, which could help people with immature or injured teeth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140537 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses lab models to study how SEMA7a, a protein made by developing tooth cells, guides dentin mineralization, root lengthening, and sensory nerve entry into the pulp. Most experiments use mouse teeth and molecular tools to track where SEMA7a is produced and what happens when its signaling is altered. The team compares normal development to models with disrupted signaling to pinpoint the cellular steps that fail. Findings are being interpreted with an eye toward problems dentists face when trying to save or support immature damaged teeth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work would be most relevant to people (especially children) with immature permanent teeth that are damaged or infected and whose teeth still need to complete root growth and mineralization.
Not a fit: People with fully developed adult teeth, routine cavities in mature teeth, or unrelated dental conditions are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to protect, regenerate, or support developing teeth so they mature and remain healthy after injury or infection.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies link SEMA7a and related signals to tooth mineralization and nerve growth, but translating those findings into human treatments remains new.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Sarah — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Peters, Sarah
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 below.