Biotechnology and Biomaterials Program Cellular and Molecular Biology, Physiology and Biotechnology Branch Division of Basic and Translational Sciences
We are asking Concept Clearance for a Request for Applications (RFA). The purpose of this RFA is to encourage the use of human stem cells (embryonic and post-natal) and bioengineering approaches for the repair and regeneration of orofacial tissues and organs.
Post-natal stem cells from a number of orofacial structures have been recently identified and the ability to use human embryonic stem cells is now a possibility. Learning how to take advantage of the pluripotent nature of human embryonic stem cells, and how to predictably control their differentiation can now begin in earnest. Consequently, there is a real opportunity to use post-natal and embryonic stem cells in combination with new biomaterials to regenerate complex orofacial structures.
Briefly, the RFA will encourage studies on: i) the understanding of the unique properties of embryonic and post natal stem cells in orofacial tissues; ii) the development of methods to induce appropriate stem cell expansion, differentiation and in vitro assembly of a functional tissue prototype unit; and iii) the design and development of new bioinspired materials for cell transplantation.
We expect that this initiative will encourage researchers from different scientific disciplines (e.g., cell and molecular biology, genetics, physics, engineering, computer and clinical sciences and other relevant fields) to collaborate and to collectively explore new avenues for regenerative dental medicine.