Understanding how aging affects tooth health and regeneration
Official title: Dentin-pulp dynamics of aging teeth
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10737859 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how aging affects the inner part of teeth and their ability to heal, with the hope of finding ways to help older adults keep their natural teeth healthy for longer.
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 start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $315,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE032355-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10737859 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are concerned about maintaining their natural teeth as they age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing dental issues or are younger than 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in the dentin-pulp complex of teeth as people age, focusing on how these changes impact the ability to regenerate and maintain healthy teeth. By analyzing the dentin-pulp interface in both young and older rodent molars, the study aims to identify how age-related factors influence the secretion of important proteins that support tooth vitality. The ultimate goal is to develop treatments that help older adults retain their natural teeth throughout their lives.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance tooth health and longevity for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in regenerative dental therapies, but this specific focus on aging teeth is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Sarah — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Peters, Sarah
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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.