Hector Rios, DDS, PhD

Hector Rios, DDS, PhD, 2008 Educator Scholar, 2013 Foundation Fellow to the ADEA/AAL Institute for Teaching & Learning in the Health Professions:

1. What is your research focus?

My research focuses on the molecular dynamics of the healthy and diseased periodontia and its therapeutic application in the area of periodontal and bone tissue engineering.

2. What has/have been the most significant contribution(s) of your research to our specialty?

Identifying the importance of a molecule known as Periostin and its relevant role in modulating periodontal integrity, wound healing, and regeneration.

3. What are some future directions of your research program?

Validating the value of Periostin as a novel therapeutic target as well as its prognostic implications and its impact beyond the periodontal sulcus.

4. What influence did the support from the Foundation have on your career as a researcher?

The AAPF has fueled my passion to bridge my clinical background with my research interest. In addition, the Foundation's constant support is a reminder of the numerous opportunities that we all have to make a difference and join the collective effort that our Academy makes to maintain our specialty as a leading discipline in Dentistry.