Molar incisor hypomineralistion (MIH) is a complex, multifactorial, developmental defect affecting enamel formation on molars and incisors, with evidence for both environmental and inherited factors contributing to risk[1,2]. Achieving a satisfactory clinical outcome can be particularly challenging due to rapid deterioration of the afflicted teeth. MIH increases the risk of toothache and decay and causes significant cosmetic issues, leading to poor quality of life for around 14% of the population[4]. Currently poor restorative outcomes are commonplace due to the reduced mineralization of enamel (resulting in weaker mechanical properties)[3] together with presence of organic components (such as but not limited to, serum albumin and type I collagen) within the enamel structure[5].
We aim to develop a set of diagnostic criteria for the recruitment of MIH affected enamel, collect teeth samples in conjunction with patient saliva and/or blood. With these samples we will investigate the physical and chemical properties of the enamel and protein contained within. Furthermore, we will also investigate the underlying genetic contribution to MIH, confirming previously published associations with variants in AMELX, ENAM and other known enamel proteins. We will then seek to correlate genetic findings with treatment outcome to facilitate a personalized medicine approach to the treatment of MIH.
Disseminating our diagnostic criteria to international partners we aim to collect tissue and genetic material internationally, thereby enhancing Leeds reputation as a world leader in enamelopathies research. This multi-disciplinary approach aims to elucidate the underlying aetiology of MIH, which, could lead to a step change in diagnosis and treatment.
Aims & Objectives:
We aim to better understand the aetiology of MIH by studying saliva, teeth and DNA from patients. Tissue will be examined nondestructively using x-ray mCT to estimate timing of the developmental defect. Tissue samples will then be divided in two. Part will be used to investigate the micro hardness and to quantify the enamel mineral, providing a link between the two parameters. The remainder will be used for histological and biochemical studies, including evaluation of enamel protein content. We will also extract DNA and test for common or rare variants in the enamel forming genes which are associated with MIH.
You should hold a first degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject. This project would suit a student with a background biosciences, dentistry or medicine.
The Faculty of Medicine and Health minimum requirements are:
- British Council IELTS - score of 6.5 overall, with no element less than 6.0
- TOEFL iBT - overall score of 92 with the listening and reading element no less than 21, writing element no less than 22 and the speaking element no less than 23.
How to apply:
To apply for this scholarship applicants should complete an online Faculty Scholarship Application form and send this alongside a full academic CV, degree transcripts (or marks so far if still studying) and degree certificates to the Faculty Graduate School [Email Address Removed].
We also require 2 academic references to support your application. Please ask your referees to complete the online Scholarship Reference form on your behalf and send directly to [Email Address Removed] by no later than Friday 9 April 2021.
If you have already applied for other scholarships using the Faculty Scholarship Application form you do not need to complete this form again. Instead you should email [Email Address Removed] to inform us you would like to be considered for this scholarship project.
Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to [Email Address Removed].
Closing date for this scholarship is Friday 9 April 2021.