Understanding how specific proteins regulate enamel formation in teeth
Official title: The stage-specific regulation of ameloblastin and enamelin by the distinct nuclear factors
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11082124 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help your teeth develop their hard outer layer, which is important for keeping them strong and healthy, and it could lead to better treatments for enamel loss in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $69,982 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DE027076-07S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082124 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with enamel-related dental issues or those interested in advancements in dental regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any enamel defects or those not seeking dental treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific proteins in the development of enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth. It focuses on the transition of cells called ameloblasts from a precursor stage to a fully functional state that produces enamel matrix proteins. By studying the genetic and epigenetic factors that control this process, the research aims to uncover how these proteins contribute to the formation and integrity of enamel. This knowledge could lead to advancements in dental treatments and regenerative therapies for enamel loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for dental enamel defects and enhance our ability to regenerate enamel.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding enamel formation and regeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Yan — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Yan
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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.