Federal Grant Award Summary

Texas A&M University System Health Science Center received a $346,500 Project Grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) under the Oral Diseases and Disorders Research program (CFDA 93.121), effective April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2031. The award supports fundamental research into the molecular pathogenesis of non-syndromic dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI), a common inherited dentin disorder caused by mutations in the dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) gene. The research investigates how specific mutations affecting the signal peptide removal process and the isoleucine-proline-valine (IPV) motif of the DSPP preprotein contribute to disease manifestation, utilizing both in vitro cell culture models and transgenic mouse models to elucidate disease mechanisms.

The project advances understanding of how mutant DSPP proteins accumulate intracellularly despite partial secretion to the dentin matrix, and explores whether small molecular compounds that stimulate bacterial signal peptidase activity can promote processing of disease-causing DSPP variants. This translational research aims to identify potential therapeutic interventions for DGI by clarifying the molecular basis of IPV mutations and their role in defective dentinogenesis, thereby contributing to the broader NIDCR mission of advancing prevention and treatment strategies for dental and craniofacial health disorders.