Understanding how a protein helps form dental enamel
Official title: Structural, spatial, and temporal features guiding amelogenins transformation of calcium phosphate into enamel
Funded at Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories · NIH-10894309 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein called amelogenin that helps make strong and durable tooth enamel, and it's for anyone interested in how we can better understand and treat problems with tooth enamel.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richland, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $477,873 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE015347-17 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894309 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with enamel-related disorders, such as amelogenesis imperfecta, or those experiencing enamel damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully healthy enamel and no history of enamel-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of amelogenin, a key protein, in the formation of dental enamel, which is crucial for its strength and durability. By examining the molecular structure and interactions of amelogenin with calcium phosphate, the study aims to uncover how this protein directs the growth and organization of enamel at a microscopic level. The research employs both in vivo and in vitro methods to analyze the transformation of minerals during enamel development, providing insights into the processes that lead to healthy enamel formation. This knowledge could pave the way for improved treatments for enamel-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better therapies for conditions affecting dental enamel, potentially restoring its natural strength and resilience.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific molecular mechanisms of amelogenin are still being explored, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding protein roles in biomineralization.
Where this research is happening
-
Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
Richland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaw, Wendy J — Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
- Study coordinator: Shaw, Wendy J
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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.