Understanding how a specific protein affects tooth and bone health
Official title: Role of Runx2 in Postnatal Dentin Synthesis and Alveolar Osteogenesis
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10997012 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Runx2 helps in the growth of teeth and the bone around them, which is important for chewing and talking, to find new ways to treat gum disease and prevent tooth loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2024 |
| Project end | July 24, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $54,774 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DE033620-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997012 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing dental issues related to alveolar bone loss or those with genetic conditions affecting tooth and bone development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with healthy teeth and bone structures or those not affected by dental diseases may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Runx2 protein in the development of teeth and the surrounding alveolar bone, which is crucial for oral functions like chewing and speaking. By studying how Runx2 influences the synthesis of dentin and the formation of alveolar bone, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for conditions like periodontitis that lead to tooth loss. The approach includes examining genetic models to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for dental and bone health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent tooth loss and improve bone health in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of Runx2 in bone development, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Caris Mulhern — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Smith, Caris Mulhern
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
-
Exploring how Down syndrome affects optic nerve health in kids
A study using a mouse model to understand why optic nerve problems are common in children with Down syndrome and how to prevent them.
-
Global bromocriptine trial for postpartum cardiomyopathy
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart failure treatment helps new mothers with peripartum cardiomyopathy.
-
Global Bromocriptine Add-on for Postpartum Heart Failure (GLOBal PPCM)
A large international study will test whether adding the dopamine agonist bromocriptine to standard heart failure care helps postpartum women with a specific heart condition.
-
Global Bromocriptine Trial for Postpartum Heart Failure (GLOBal PPCM)
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart-failure care helps women with postpartum cardiomyopathy.
-
Bromocriptine as add-on therapy for postpartum cardiomyopathy across multiple sites
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart failure treatment helps new mothers with postpartum cardiomyopathy.
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.