NIDCR News 2021

Watch a fibroblast creep and crawl through a web of proteins. To move about the body, these common cells use methods that are distinct from cancer cells. The finding could shed light on ways to thwart spread of cancers, including those of the head and neck.

Early-stage researchers discuss their experiences in MIND the Future, a year-long program that provides one-on-one mentoring and career-related training to individuals from diverse backgrounds to ease the transition to research independence and to enhance the diversity of the dental, oral, and craniofacial research workforce.

NIDCR physician-scientist Alison Boyce is searching for treatments for Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune-Albright syndrome, a rare disease of the bones, endocrine system, and skin that can impair quality of life.

An international team of scientists has found evidence that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, infects cells in the mouth. This new information on the mouth’s involvement in coronavirus infection could inform strategies to reduce viral transmission within and outside the body.

In a review article, researchers describe how dental practitioners and occupational therapists can work together to make dental visits more soothing for children with autism spectrum disorder.

A recent study adds an unexpected twist to what was known about the immune disturbances that allow fungus to take hold in the mouth. The findings could lead to better therapies for fungal infections.

NIDCR immunologist Roxane Tussiwand studies how molecular cues shape the development of immune cells. Her findings could help scientists better understand infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

In an NIDCR-supported study, scientists set out to develop a better material for regenerating bone in the mouth. Twenty years later, after their research took some twists and turns, they invented an innovative adhesive for oral surgery—inspired by slugs with elements from shellfish and seaweed.

Researchers have discovered a new genetic disorder characterized by developmental delays and malformations of the brain, heart, and facial features. The underlying pathway may be essential for human development and could also underlie other disorders that are present at birth.