Neuroscience in Craniomaxillofacial and Oral Development: Mechanisms and Interactions

Craniomaxillofacial and oral development is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. According to a 2025 analysis by The Lancet, oral diseases impact approximately 3.69 billion people globally, underscoring a profound public health challenge. Despite the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2030 target to reduce prevalence by 10%, significant hurdles remain due to an inadequate understanding of the disease mechanisms. Conditions such as craniosynostosis and dental pulp defects exert considerable influence on quality of life, often necessitating invasive treatments that suffer high recurrence rates. Recent findings, such as discovering cathepsin K-positive cell lineages regulated by nerve-derived Sonic Hedgehog signaling, spotlight innovative therapeutic targets in craniomaxillofacial and oral tissue regeneration. This Research Topic aims to unravel the intricate neurogenic mechanisms of developmental biology, bridging the gap between foundational research and practical medical applications.

This Research Topic uses the craniomaxillofacial and oral regions as model systems to scrutinize the synergy between neural processes and oral tissue function. The significant impact of these disorders on quality of life makes understanding neurogenic regulation essential. Neural signals, like Sonic Hedgehog, demonstrate crucial roles in processes such as dentin formation, offering insights into craniofacial development and regeneration pathways. By clarifying these mechanisms, the topic not only advances developmental biology and neuroscience but also inspires new therapeutic strategies. Integrating concepts from cranial suture regeneration and dental pulp studies provides a holistic view of neurogenic mechanisms, guiding the development of treatments addressing both developmental anomalies and acquired defects.

To foster this exploration, we invite manuscripts that delve into the neural mechanisms underpinning craniomaxillofacial and oral development, focusing on neurogenic regulation. Studies should explore neural signaling pathways and their roles in dentinogenesis and morphogenesis. Original research, reviews, and perspectives that translate these insights into clinical innovations are particularly welcome. Researchers are encouraged to contribute findings that leverage the craniomaxillofacial and oral regions as models to enhance our understanding of neuroscience, developmental biology, and therapeutic methodologies, propelling interdisciplinary collaboration toward effective treatments.