– A University of California, Los Angeles dentistry professor and his research team’s research was published in the July 6 issue of Cell Stem Cell. The findings could change dentists’ typical approaches and offer relief for those suffering from bone disease.
Dr. Cun-Yu Wang and his team recognized two enzymes that can detect the fate of stem cells from bone marrow. The two enzymes – KDM4B and KDM6B – can steer cells to develop bone cells by removing methyl markers from gene-regulating proteins.
San Rafael dentist, Dr. Greg Larson, who also provides teeth whitening in San Francisco, is keeping a close watch on the progressing research. Supporting bone cell growth can prove helpful in treating many diseases. Gum disease patients often experience tooth decay and bone loss, and with the new research, it grants opportunity for bone and tooth regeneration. Medicines that encourage new bone growth may have the ability to control metabolic bone diseases such as osteoporosis, Paget’s disease and osteitis fibrosa cystica.
Dr. No-Hee Park, dean of the UCLA School of Dentistry, believes the findings create notable implications for craniofacial bone regeneration and treatment for osteoporosis.
Bone marrow stem cells are capable of growing into bone cells or fat cells, and these two regulating enzymes could help scientists adjust the cells to the desired product.
Wang affirms that the findings indicate that they now are aware certain genes must be activated for cells to develop as bone-forming cells rather than fat cells. The research team now has clues to activate those cells.
Wang’s research was funded by grants from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
With this new research, it could be possible in the next few years for Larson’s pain free dentistry that offers dental implants services to begin growing new teeth inside his patients’ mouths.
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To learn more about San Francisco cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule an appointment with San Rafael invisalign provider, Dr. Larson, contact their office at 415-397-2804.
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The Larson Dentistry team offers extensive dental care for San Francisco patients. Dr. Greg Larson stays current in his field by attending more than 200 hours of continuing education each year and mentoring other dentists worldwide.
