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Genetic Engineering May Grow New Teeth
The human genome project involves identifying the three billion chemical base pairs and 50,000 to 100,000 genes that are contained in the human genome (all of the genetic material that makes up a person). This information may help to prevent and cure diseases, and may also aid other scientists that seek to "grow" new teeth in the future.
Mary MacDougall, Ph.D., associate dean, Dental School, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, says she, along with colleagues, has been studying the dynamics of tooth formation and conducting laboratory research to eventually grow human teeth. To understand the research, we need to know a little bit about the anatomy of the tooth.
A tooth is hollow like our bones, and is composed of several layers. The outermost layer (above the gum line) is called the enamel. Enamel is the hardest and most mineralized substance in the body. Beneath the gum line a substance called cementum covers the tooth roots. Under the enamel and cementum is the dentin.
Beneath the dentin is the dental pulp. The pulp is a vascular tissue composed of capillaries, larger blood vessels, connective tissue, nerve fibers and other cells. Dr. MacDougall's research uses genetically engineered mouse and human cell lines to form these three outer layers of the tooth, the enamel, cementum and dentin. The goal of the research is to grow teeth remotely in culture for transplantation or locally within the mouth itself. The benefits of this research would be incredible for people with missing teeth.
Teeth that are lost due to extensive cavities, gum disease or accidents could be replaced with new, genetically created ones. Instead of having to wear dentures or rely on synthetic titanium implants, a person could have real, natural teeth either reimplanted or regrown in place of the missing ones. Although the practical applications of this research may be many years into the future, the idea of growing new teeth is an intriguing one. Just a few decades ago, dental implants also seemed like a far fetched way to replace missing teeth. Now, it is common practice in dentistry. Who knows what else will be common practice in dentistry just a few decades from now?
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