Understanding how dental follicles help form and regenerate tooth roots
Dental Follicle: A Central Regulator of Tooth Root Formation and Regeneration
This study is looking at how certain cells in the dental follicles help create and repair tooth roots, which are important for healthy teeth and facial growth, and it aims to find new ways to treat dental problems that can lead to tooth loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11019784 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dental follicles in the formation and regeneration of tooth roots, which are crucial for proper tooth function and overall facial development. The study aims to understand how different types of progenitor cells within the dental follicle work together to create a functional periodontal attachment apparatus. By analyzing the signaling pathways involved, particularly the Hedgehog-Fox pathway, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to innovative treatments for dental diseases that cause tooth loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from dental diseases such as caries or periodontal disease that may lead to tooth loss.
Not a fit: Patients with fully intact dental structures and no history of periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new regenerative therapies that restore tooth roots and periodontal structures, improving dental health and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding dental tissue regeneration, but this specific approach focusing on dental follicles is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ono, Wanida — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Ono, Wanida
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.