# Multiscale Modeling of the Demineralization of Tissues

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Northwestern University (IL) · $500,000

## Abstract

Loss of minerals from teeth owing to tooth decay or erosive tooth wear, or from bones owing to osteoporosis, compromises mechanical function, causes pain, and affects quality of life. Demineralization involves the dissolution of biological apatite crystallites.  This project will create a computational model that will accurately predict time-dependent changes in mineralized tissue structure and composition.  Based on robust structural, compositional, and thermodynamic data or quantum chemical computation, this model will show how the phases, interfaces, and dissolution dynamics contribute to healthy and pathological mineralized tissues. In the long-term, this model will be able to identify risk factors for enamel dissolution and enable personalized minimally invasive interventions to address mineral loss in teeth. The project will provide early career researchers with the skills to apply state-of-the-art computational and experimental materials science approaches to research in life sciences and engineering. 

Demineralization of teeth and bones is linked to multiple debilitating disorders with poor quality of life. These disorders involve the dissolution of apatite crystallites, and in dental enamel an amorphous intergranular phase (AIGP) is also involved. Minor constituents modulate the solubility and orientation-dependent interfacial free energies during demineralization. The interplay between the microstructure and composition of bulk phases, interfaces, mechanical stre

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2445337
- **Awardee organization:** Northwestern University (IL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** EXZVPWZBLUE8
- **PI:** Derk Joester
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $500,000
- **Funds obligated:** $500,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2445337

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2445337, Multiscale Modeling of the Demineralization of Tissues. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2445337. Licensed CC0.

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