Understanding how specific proteins regulate tooth enamel development
Official title: The stage-specific regulation of ameloblastin and enamelin by the distinct nuclear factors
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10922871 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help form tooth enamel, which is important for keeping your teeth strong and healthy, and it aims to find new ways to treat problems related to enamel.
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 | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $502,968 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE027076-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922871 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with enamel defects or conditions affecting tooth development, such as amelogenesis imperfecta.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without enamel-related conditions or those who have fully developed teeth may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that control the development of tooth enamel by focusing on specific proteins called ameloblastin and enamelin. It aims to understand how these proteins are regulated during different stages of ameloblast differentiation, which is crucial for enamel formation. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze gene expression and chromatin organization in ameloblasts, the cells responsible for enamel production. By uncovering these regulatory pathways, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to innovative treatments for enamel-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for conditions like amelogenesis imperfecta, improving dental health and enamel restoration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding enamel development, but this specific approach focusing on the regulation of ameloblastin and enamelin is relatively novel.
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.