Date of Completion

Spring 5-1-2026

Thesis Advisor(s)

Ping Zhang, Michael O'Neill

Honors Major

Molecular and Cell Biology

Disciplines

Oral Biology and Oral Pathology

Abstract

Enamel is one of the most critical structural components of the tooth. As the outermost layer, it serves as a protective barrier, shielding the underlying dentin and dental pulp from physical trauma and mechanical forces. The formation and mineralization of enamel are regulated by specialized cells known as ameloblasts. Once enamel maturation is complete, these cells undergo apoptosis. Consequently, enamel lacks the capacity for natural regeneration after damage or erosion, which can result from various environmental factors. When enamel is compromised, current clinical interventions focus on preventing further deterioration rather than true regeneration. These approaches include the use of remineralizing agents or restorative procedures in which the damaged enamel is replaced with synthetic materials. Emerging research has proposed the possibility of regenerating enamel rather than replacing it. To achieve this, stem cells from multiple lineages have been investigated for their potential to differentiate into tooth-forming cells, such as ameloblasts. In theory, these regenerated ameloblast-like cells could produce new enamel. However, significant challenges and limitations remain in achieving functional and clinically viable enamel regeneration.

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