Why tooth enamel can be weak in Down syndrome or after excess fluoride
Redox and Ca2+ signaling regulation of enamel mineralization
Researchers are looking at how energy problems and calcium signals in enamel-forming cells might lead to weak or poorly mineralized teeth in people with Down syndrome or dental fluorosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11294218 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will study the cells that make tooth enamel (ameloblasts) to see how their mitochondria and calcium signaling help enamel harden. They will use lab-grown cells and animal models and compare those results with tooth or tissue samples from people affected by Down syndrome or dental fluorosis. The researchers will expose cells or models to fluoride and measure mineral deposition, mitochondrial activity, and calcium handling. The goal is to connect basic cell changes to the enamel defects seen in some patients and point toward possible ways to protect or improve enamel.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with Down syndrome or with a history of dental fluorosis who are willing to provide dental or health samples or clinical information would be the most likely candidates for related patient-facing parts of this work.
Not a fit: People whose tooth problems are mainly from common cavities, trauma, or causes unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction or fluoride exposure may not directly benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to better ways to prevent or reduce weak enamel in people with Down syndrome or those affected by dental fluorosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have linked mitochondrial defects to abnormal enamel development, but applying those findings to patients and to fluoride-related enamel defects is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lacruz, Rodrigo S. — New York University
- Study coordinator: Lacruz, Rodrigo S.
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.