Primary teeth a rich source of
stem cells
By Craig Palmer
Washington — Scientists are working with tooth-associated
stem cells to address oral and systemic health problems, the
dental research community told Congress Feb. 17.
Researchers described recent research by dental scientists including
the discovery that baby teeth contain a rich supply of stem
cells in their dental pulp. That unexpected discovery, announced
in 2003 by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial
Research, suggests that the cells of the temporary teeth children
begin losing around their sixth birthday could be harvested
for research.
"Through this research, post-natal stems cells have been
isolated from primary ('baby') teeth that can develop into a
wider range of cell types than can cells of other post-natal
tissues," the American Association for Dental Research
said in a research summary distributed at the briefing. "Furthermore,
these cells are easily obtained, since every person has his
or her own 'stockpile.'
"Here are a few of the exciting discoveries in the world
of dental and craniofacial research that may expand research
using stem cells while avoiding current political, moral and
other objections some have to the use of embryonic stem cells,"
said the AADR statement.
The American Dental Association and American Dental Education
Association co-sponsored the Capitol Hill briefing with support
provided by an unrestricted grant from Sunstar Butler. Several
dozen congressional offices were represented at the briefing.
Researchers also are sowing the scientific seeds of "regenerative
dentistry," an attempt to bioengineer teeth and other parts
of the mouth damaged by disease. Laboratories have reported
early success producing tooth enamel, generating dentin and
reconstituting diseased gum tissue, according to research reported
in The Lancet and described at the congressional briefing.
The NIDCR, leading source of dental research support through
the National Institutes of Health, spent $10.8 million on stem
cell research in fiscal year 2004, said Dr. Lawrence Tabak,
director of the dental institute.
