University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio to Launch Center for Regenerative Sciences

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Dentistry is set to launch its Center for Regenerative Sciences, with the goal of becoming a leader in regenerative dentistry and other medicines, according to a press release from the institution. This center will focus on interdisciplinary collaborations, per Yong-Hee Chun, DDS, PhD, MS, associate professor of periodontics. Dr Chun researches the molecules that are key to tooth remineralization, and she expressed how key regeneration is in future therapies in the press release.

“When teeth and their support structures are malformed, such as with molar-incisor hypomineralization, or are damaged by diseases like periodontal diseases, new treatments are needed. These treatments aim to regenerate the affected tissues and restore normal function,” she said in the press release.

Anibal Diogenes, DDS, PhD, professor and chair of the Department of Endodontics, emphasized the center’s capacity to rapidly advance the field by translating biological advancements into clinical applications. The center will focus on advanced tissue regeneration strategies, 3D printing of tissues, acellular scaffolds, and targeted drug delivery using encapsulated growth factors and chemotactic molecules, according to the press release.

“This center represents a huge opportunity to bootstrap the field, diversify our research, and enhance collaboration among our scientists,” Dr Diogenes said in the press release.

The center will also explore stem cell-based therapies, such as root canal treatments for children, which can activate their own stem cells to reestablish dental pulp and allow continued tooth development, crucial for overall growth.

Brij B. Singh, PhD, associate dean of research, stated that the initiative would bring in talent from different concentrations and create a collaborative environment for breakthroughs in dental and medical sciences.

“The vision is to become a global leader in regenerative sciences, ultimately improving patient care outcomes everywhere,” Dr Singh said in the press release.

The Center for Regenerative Sciences will be formally launched later in fall 2024. For more information, visit the website here.