Treatment of Periodontal Disease via ENPPI Inhibition
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.