A clinical trial has shown that an investigational drug, encaleret, can restore parathyroid function and normalize blood calcium levels in people with autosomal dominant hypocalcemia type 1. The treatment was effective in restoring every participant's blood calcium level to normal within 24 weeks.
A team of scientists discovered a neural mechanism by which sound reduces pain in mice, potentially informing more effective pain therapies. The study found that low-intensity white noise and pleasant music reduced pain sensitivity in mice, while unpleasant music had no effect.
Oral health disparities persist despite improved overall health trends, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. Research and policy initiatives are needed to make oral health care more affordable, accessible, and responsive to communities.
Researchers found that fibrin buildup triggers an overactive immune response, damaging gums and underlying bone. Suppressing abnormal fibrin activity could hold promise for preventing or treating periodontal disease.
A process in cells may limit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, but mutations in alpha and delta variants overcome this effect. GALNT1 enzyme activity reduces furin cleavage, while mutated spike proteins increase it.
Researchers discover SARS-CoV-2 can infect cells in the mouth, leading to oral symptoms like taste loss and dry mouth. The study suggests saliva may play a role in transmitting the virus to the lungs or digestive system.
A new genetic disorder, LINKED, has been identified by NIH researchers, characterized by developmental delays and malformations of the brain, heart, and facial features. The disorder is caused by mutations in the OTUD5 gene, which interferes with key molecular steps in embryo development.
Scientists regenerate parts of the skull using stem cells, correcting skull shape and reversing learning and memory deficits in young mice with craniosynostosis. The study holds great potential for less invasive therapies for children with this common birth defect.
A NIH-funded study has revealed unprecedented atomic details of human tooth enamel structure and composition, including the presence of minor elements such as magnesium and sodium. The findings suggest that these irregularities may introduce areas of strain in the crystallite, potentially making enamel stronger overall.
A new study identifies Th17 cells as drivers of periodontitis, a common disorder affecting nearly half of American adults over age 30. The research found that an unhealthy oral microbiome triggers the accumulation of these immune cells, leading to inflammation and bone loss.
Scientists at NIH report discovering a small molecule, natriuretic polypeptide b (Nppb), that streams ahead and selectively plugs into a specific nerve cell in the spinal cord, triggering the sensation of itch. In mice with Nppb-deficient neurons, itching was significantly reduced.
A new patent issued for an experimental compound RTX, which represents a potential new class of drugs to alleviate intractable pain. The method patent covers intrathecal administration of RTX, promising to improve lives of people with severe pain.
Researchers identified increased sensitivity to pain stimuli, altered heart rate responses, and genetic variations in patients with chronic TMJD. The study also found that socio-economic status does not correlate with TMJD incidence, contrasting with other chronic pain conditions.
Researchers identified a protein receptor, called carbonic anhydrase 4, that initiates the sensation of carbonation. The enzyme is expressed on sour-sensing cells and helps detect acid stimuli from carbon dioxide, explaining why we perceive fizz as a familiar sensation.
The NIDCR launched the FaceBase Consortium to systematically compile biological instructions for constructing the middle region of the human face and define genetics underlying developmental disorders. A comprehensive database will be created to enable scientists to mine information and accelerate research.
Researchers have identified a network of genes that control tooth number and patterning in cichlids, shedding light on the evolutionary origins of teeth. This discovery has significant implications for understanding tooth development and regeneration, potentially leading to new treatments for dental diseases.
The Human Oral Microbiome Database (HOMD) is a free online compendium that provides detailed biological entries for each species and an extensive catalogue of the thousands of genes expressed by these microbes. The database aims to facilitate research into oral diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Researchers have designed a hybrid material that combines the dry adhesive properties of geckos with the underwater adhesive properties of mussels, producing a synthetic material that adheres well under both wet and dry conditions. The geckel nanoadhesive showed improved adherence compared to previous gecko-based synthetic adhesives.
A large clinical trial found that pregnant women treated for gum disease during pregnancy did not have a significantly lower risk of premature birth. The study, the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy Trial (OPT), also showed no increase in adverse events from dental treatment during pregnancy.
Researchers have created a new smart anti-microbial treatment called STAMP that can selectively target and kill cavity-causing bacteria without harming good bacteria. The treatment uses a specific pheromone to locate the bacteria and an anti-microbial bomb to eliminate it, offering a promising approach to preventing tooth decay.
Researchers identified a new gene, SUMO1, as a potential cause of cleft lip and palate when underexpressed. The discovery links individual genes to shared protein networks, providing a promising new lead in understanding the complex genetic mechanisms behind this birth defect.
The MitoChip v2.0 is a second-generation 'lab on a silicon chip' that rapidly sequences all mitochondrial DNA, accelerating research in fields like cancer diagnostics and gerontology. The new tool detected nearly three dozen variations in the non-coding D-loop region, improving its sensitivity and reproducibility.
Researchers conducted two large studies on children with dental amalgam fillings and found no adverse health effects. Despite initial concerns about mercury poisoning, the studies concluded that children exposed to amalgam had low levels of mercury in their urine and no measurable signs of damage to the brain or kidneys.
The VELScope device emits blue light, causing cells to absorb energy and re-emit fluorescence, helping dentists detect abnormal tissue. The device correctly identified all normal biopsies and 98% of cancers, offering a promising solution for early oral cancer detection.
Researchers found that matriptase, a cell surface enzyme, triggers the formation of tumor cells and promotes rapid cell division. The study suggests that targeting matriptase could be an effective way to treat various types of cancer.
Researchers discovered that tumor cells physically attach to a protein displayed on the surfaces of endothelial cells, triggering angiogenesis. The finding suggests a new anti-angiogenic strategy by blocking both secreted molecules and cell-to-cell contact.
A recent NIH study found a direct link between cardiovascular disease and four types of bacteria commonly found in periodontal infections. The study monitored 657 participants' oral bacteria and carotid thickness, revealing that the same bacteria were present throughout, suggesting a specific association.
Researchers discovered distinct patterns of mRNA in saliva that can indicate developing oral cancer. The study found that a salivary test could identify cancer patients with high accuracy, potentially replacing current diagnostic tests.
The NIDCR-launched study aims to detect unique patterns of gene expression in oral bacterial communities that predict periodontal diseases. The researchers will store biological information in a searchable online database, allowing for more precise diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers have developed a new gene test that can identify the risk of isolated cleft lip and palate in 12% of cases, opening up new possibilities for families affected. The test detects specific sequence variations associated with an increased chance of a child being born with a cleft.
Scientists successfully isolated human periodontal ligament stem cells, which have shown tremendous potential to regenerate the periodontal ligament and cementum. The stem cells were able to form dense tissue in rodent models, with eight out of 13 transplants producing a mixture of cementum and periodontal ligament.
Researchers developed a new technique to selectively delete C-fiber neurons, which transmit chronic pain signals, using the drug resiniferatoxin. In animal studies, this approach reduced pain and improved behavior without side effects.
Researchers have identified a new source of stem cells in human teeth, known as SHED (Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth), which can grow rapidly in culture and differentiate into specialized cells. This discovery may lead to breakthroughs in tooth repair, bone regeneration, and neural injury treatment.
A team of scientists at the National Institutes of Health reports finding cheek cells with a male Y chromosome, indicating that some transplanted stem cells had differentiated into cheek cells. The study provides strong evidence for transdifferentiation and offers insights into its potential therapeutic applications.
The new centers will focus on reducing early childhood caries and addressing disparities in oral cancer screening among minority groups. Researchers will investigate the effects of tooth decay on quality of life, explore ways to involve pediatricians in prevention, and examine oral microbes that trigger tooth decay.
Researchers discover SLPI protein promotes healing in non-healing wounds, reversing tissue destruction and hastening recovery. The study's findings may lead to new treatments for delayed wound healing in the elderly.
Research shows that newborns who experience tissue injury and pain may develop a permanent rewiring of their nervous system, leading to increased sensitivity to pain later in life. The study used an animal model to demonstrate the effects of early pain exposure on adult pain pathways.
A team of researchers has developed a genetic tracking system that allows them to follow neural crest cells from the embryonic stage to adulthood. The study reveals key players in tooth formation and highlights their contribution to other craniofacial structures.
Scientists have discovered a new family of bitter taste receptors that can detect different forms of bitter and are found in the cells of taste buds. These receptors were found to be highly discriminative and appear to play a crucial role in an animal's survival.
Researchers discovered a novel pathway controlling bone formation and density through the brain's hypothalamus, where leptin acts as a natural bone inhibitor. This finding offers potential treatment approaches for osteoporosis by manipulating the leptin pathway.
Scientists discovered a PAX9 gene mutation causing congenitally absent molars in a Houston family, revealing insights into the genetics of human tooth development. The study, published in Nature Genetics, used molecular epidemiology and DNA analysis to identify the responsible gene, which is activated early in tooth development.
A team of scientists has discovered the gene responsible for Papillon-Lefevre syndrome, a rare condition characterized by thick, cracked skin and premature tooth loss. The study identified mutations in the cathepsin C gene, which may help understand the development of periodontal disease.
A large-scale study found that chewing tobacco users are more likely to develop dental caries, especially on the root surfaces of their teeth. The researchers suggest that high sugar content in chewing tobacco and its use pattern may contribute to tooth decay.
Scientists found that osteonectin, a bone protein, attracts prostate cancer cells and stimulates their invasion. This discovery has important implications for the treatment of prostate cancer and other bone-seeking cancers.
Researchers have found another aberrant gene on chromosome 2 that produces identical symptoms to the X-chromosome gene discovered earlier. The discovery improves genetic diagnosis prospects and may help in developing future therapies for hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia.
Researchers have successfully delivered beta-endorphin genes into the sheath of tissue surrounding the spinal cord, reducing hyperalgesic pain sensation in animal models. The study's simplified approach and selective therapeutic effect suggest potential applications for treating various spinal cord and brain disorders.
Scientists have developed a stripped-down gene therapy approach using naked DNA to treat rheumatoid arthritis in rats. The treatment, which injected TGF-ß plasmids into muscle tissue, significantly reduced chronic arthritis symptoms and joint inflammation.
Researchers have successfully replicated human bone disorder McCune-Albright syndrome in mice using a novel animal model. The model utilizes a combination of normal and mutant stromal cells, which are mixed together before transplantation into immune-compromised mice.
Scientists have discovered that saliva can be used as a source of DNA for genetic testing, with the potential to identify individuals at risk of certain diseases. This non-invasive method has significant implications for disease screening and diagnosis, particularly for children who may not be able to give blood.
A new study reveals that tissue macrophages play a critical role in triggering the production of HIV in patients with AIDS, leading to increased virus levels despite declining CD4 T cell counts. This finding highlights the importance of controlling opportunistic infections to slow the cycle of virus production.