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Research areas

Craniofacial development

Regulating mechanisms in teeth

Research areas

Craniofacial development
Missing teeth is one of the most common congenital developmental disturbances, and every year 3000 children are born with missing tooth buds in their dentitions. Missing teeth is more common in certain families than in others, indicating genetic regulatory mechanisms behind such deviations. The coastal region of Norway has a relatively stable population (settlement), and is therefore suitable for such studies. By means of molecular genetic research methods, the aim of the group is to identify genes behind agenesis and delayed tooth eruption. Interactions within the tooth bud on tooth development and the effect of different genes are studied in knock-out models.

The aim is to improve diag­nosis and treatment options of congenital deviations in teeth, dentitions and jaws. Teeth are also excellent model systems for studies and analysis of mechanisms behind organ development in general. Clinical studies that evaluate the results of applied treatment methods are part of this project.

Regulating mechanisms in teeth
Signal substances regulate normal functions and defence mechanisms and repair following tissue injury. The aim of the research group is to increase knowledge about mechanisms that control the outcome of injuries in teeth. Teeth in function are normally subjected to external forces, disease and damage, resulting in inflammatory changes in teeth and supporting tissues. Pain, both of chronic and acute character, is often an unwanted side-effect. As teeth are extremely well supplied with nerve fibres, teeth represent an excellent model system to study how nerve tissue is affected by injury and inflammation, and also the effects of nerve tissue on the outcome of tissue injury. By functional studies, inner steering mechanisms that sustain balance in these tissues are investigates. Clinical studies are included in the project.

Group leader Professor Inge Fristad<-->