Lab-Grown Teeth Could Kill Need for Fillings

Researchers identify gene key to growing protective enamel

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted Feb 24, 2009 3:14 PM CST

(Newser) – Scientists have identified a gene that grows tooth enamel and could be the missing link needed to grow teeth in labs—perhaps rendering fillings and dentures obsolete, the BBC reports. Researchers had already figured out how to grow the insides of animal teeth, but not enamel, which can’t grow back naturally. Tests in mice lacking the key gene led to the discovery.

The Ctip2 gene is essential in the growth and function of cells that produce enamel, Oregon scientists found. Using knowledge of the gene alongside stem-cell research could either help create teeth or strengthen and repair enamel in the fight against tooth decay. “A lot of work would still be needed to bring this to human applications, but it should work,” said the head researcher.

Could the days of fillings come to an end? (Shutterstock)

The Ctip2 gene is needed for the growth of cells that produce enamel. (Shutterstock)

Scientists have identified a gene central to tooth-enamel growth. (Shutterstock)

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COMMENTS

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Showing 3 of 6 comments

riffran

Feb 26, 2009 3:24 AM CST

well chudluv.....I am glad that you are still here, to be able to complain about bad teeth....(I just had a crown put in lol )....and I hope your prognosis remains in your favor, cancer is tough to beat, if not caught quick enough...*clap clap clap*....I hope it wasn't too rough a treatment

Doctor-Zaius

Feb 25, 2009 6:28 AM CST

Too bad by the time they figure out how to make us live forever by regenerating our broken body parts there will be too damn many people on the planet to make it a good idea.

Guest

Feb 24, 2009 8:36 PM CST

we have a philosopher, people!

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Lab-Grown Teeth Could Kill Need for Fillings

Researchers identify gene key to growing protective enamel

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Sharing bacteria can spread tooth decay

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Experts recommend eating cheese to reduce effect on tooth enamel

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Fewer new grads, more real teeth mean spiking costs could drill consumers

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Lab-Grown Teeth Could Kill Need for Fillings

Researchers identify gene key to growing protective enamel

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

medical breakthrough • dental health • teeth • health research

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Cavities Are Contagious

Sharing bacteria can spread tooth decay

Your New Drug: Placebos

They seem to work even when patients know what they're getting

White Wine Hurts the Choppers

Experts recommend eating cheese to reduce effect on tooth enamel

Dentist Dropoff Leaves a Cavity

Fewer new grads, more real teeth mean spiking costs could drill consumers

Asthma Breakthrough Holds Promise

'Cellular pump' suggests possible treatments

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Newser By Users

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