Investigating the role of the kynurenine pathway in irreversible pulpitis

The kynurenine pathway is responsible for the catabolism of the essential amino acid kynurenine. This pathway has been linked to acute and chronic pain in animal models of viral infections. Research by the team has shown upregulation of this pathway in pulpititis (toothache) and it appears to be pushing the pathway towards neuroinflammation and pain. This project therefore looks to examine the kynurneine pathway as a means to therapeutic reduce the pain experienced during toothache and potentially persistent pain which can follow. 2. There is an absence of topically applied medications for use in managing dental pain. Much of this is due to the complexities in examining potential therapeutics with animal models often used. This project looks to develop a lab made (in vitro) cell model of dental pulp using stem cells. This will reduce our reliance on animal models in keeping with the NC3Rs, but also speed up drug screening as compounds can be assessed more easily and at a greater range of doses prior to further investigation ensuring only the most promising are taken forward.