Understanding how teeth can regrow and repair themselves
A novel GTPase regulator governing the regenerative capacity of murine teeth
This work explores how special cells help teeth repair and regenerate, with the goal of improving future dental treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11192283 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are learning how stem cells in teeth maintain themselves and help repair damage, using mouse models that show both strong healing and limited healing, similar to human teeth. Our team has found a new gene, called Din, that appears to be very important for these stem cells to work correctly. By studying mice where this gene is not active, we can see how it affects tooth growth and healing. This helps us understand the basic processes of tooth regeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients who may experience tooth damage or loss and could benefit from regenerative dental therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for dental issues will not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to help people regrow or better repair their teeth in the future.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses a newly developed mouse model and identifies a novel gene, suggesting a new and untested approach to understanding tooth regeneration.
Where this research is happening
College Station, United States
- Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr — College Station, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Xiaofang — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Wang, Xiaofang
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.