Understanding how pH levels affect tooth enamel development
Enamel biomineralization; the role of pH cycling
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11162474
This research helps us understand how tooth enamel forms and stays strong by looking at how pH changes affect the cells that build enamel.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11162474 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Enamel is the hardest part of your teeth, protecting them for a lifetime. This research looks at how special cells called ameloblasts build enamel. These cells create enamel by first laying down proteins, which are then replaced by strong minerals. During this process, the pH (acidity) around the enamel changes regularly, and if this pH cycling is disrupted, it can lead to weak or poorly formed enamel. We want to learn more about how pH changes and ameloblast cells work together to create healthy enamel.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with conditions affecting tooth enamel formation, such as Amelogenesis Imperfecta, might eventually benefit from this fundamental understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without issues related to tooth enamel formation or those with fully developed, healthy enamel may not directly benefit from this specific basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat conditions like Amelogenesis Imperfecta, which causes weak tooth enamel.
How similar studies have performed: This research aims to uncover fundamental mechanisms that are not yet fully understood, building upon preliminary findings about pH-dependent cell behavior and signaling pathways.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DEN BESTEN, PAMELA K — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: DEN BESTEN, PAMELA K
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.