Technology ID
TAB-4551

Treatment of Periodontal Disease via ENPPI Inhibition

E-Numbers
E-024-2018-0
Lead Inventor
Braddock, Demetrios (Yale University)
Co-Inventors
Somerman, Martha (NIDCR)
Chu, Emily (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH/NIAMS)
Thumbigere-Math, Vivek (University of Maryland, Baltimore)
Foster, Brian (National Inst of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases)
Nociti, Francisco (State University of campinas)
Applications
Therapeutics
Therapeutic Areas
Dental
Development Stages
Pre-clinical (in vivo)
Lead IC
NIAMS
ICs
NIDCR

This technology focuses on enhancing cementum production, a key component in treating periodontal regression. The method involves inhibiting ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterases (ENPP1), enzymes that play a significant role in mineralization processes. Pyrophosphate (PPi) is known to impede the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals, essential for mineralization. ENPP1 catalyzes the hydrolysis of ATP, generating PPi, which then hinders mineralization. Research indicates that the balance between inorganic phosphate (Pi) and PPi (Pi/PPi ratio) significantly influences cementum formation, a crucial tissue for dental health. Notably, cementum production can be considerably enhanced, by over ten times, when PPi levels are reduced. This has been observed in both murine models and humans with impaired ENPP1 function. Since ENPP1 is the primary extracellular source of PPi, its inhibition creates a favorable environment for increased cementum production, offering a promising avenue for treating periodontal diseases.

Commercial Applications
Use for periodontal regeneration and beyond for other disorders, conditions, trauma related to mineralized tissues.

Competitive Advantages
Current therapies for treating periodontal disease, such as dental hygiene, antibiotics, and teeth replacement via surgery, do not have predictable outcomes and do not demonstrate reliable cementum regeneration.

Request More Info

Licensing Contact:
Yonter, Ediz
ediz.yonter@nih.gov

Collaborations

  • Licensing

Collaboration Description

  • We are seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further developer, evaluate, or commercialize this technology.
Date Published