We could be soon saying goodbye to those painful fillings. The latest research from Oregon State University in the U.S has found a gene that manages the production of tooth enamel, raising the tantalising possibility of people one day growing extra teeth when needed. [1]Whilst research has only been done on mice, the gene a 'transcription factor' called Ctip2 (involved in the immune system and in the development of skin and nerves) has shown to produce enamel on their teeth that lack proper enamel covering. Researcher Dr Chrissa Kioussi says: ‘Enamel is one of the hardest coatings found in nature and this is the first transcription factor ever found to control the formation and maturation of ameloblasts, which are the cells that secrete enamel.' [1]
This new found gene may even obsolete fillings in the future or could alternatively be used to strengthen or even repair existing enamel. However researchers say there is still a lot of work needed to bring this to humans but hope to grow teeth within 10 years. [1]
Many of you have witnessed the painful fillings; techniques like this may give everyone the much sought-after 'Hollywood smile'.
[1] - Find this story at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1153575/Found-gene-grow-new-teeth.html
