Episode 19

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Published on:

24th Nov 2025

Is This the Next Big Enamel Breakthrough? – The Shocking Truth About Wool Peptides with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

What if the next big breakthrough in enamel repair isn’t a synthetic chemical at all, but peptides pulled straight from sheep’s wool?

Are we on the brink of a breakthrough in enamel repair or just spinning wool into wishful thinking? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey and co-host Tami unpack the latest research on wool-derived peptides, keratin, and elastin-like polypeptides as potential tools for enamel remineralization. From the origins of amelogenin to the science of polypeptide assembly and protein templating, they break down the complex biochemistry behind these buzzworthy innovations. But they don’t stop there, the hosts dive deep into formulation hurdles, clinical relevance, and the commercialization landmines that stand in the way of turning lab hype into reality.

🔍 Highlights ↠

  • The science behind amelogenin and why it holds the key to enamel formation
  • How keratin-derived peptides from sheep’s wool are being explored as a restorative enamel scaffold
  • Why beta-sheet vs. alpha-helix structures matter for mineral templating
  • The role of hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains in protein-calcium bonding
  • Challenges with Curadont and why peptide-based pastes aren’t ready for toothpaste aisles
  • Why aqueous vs. non-aqueous solvents can make or break peptide stability
  • Deep dive into resin infiltration and how peptide delivery could disrupt this space
  • Understanding T-E-G-D-M-A crosslinkers, keratin prep, and hydrogen bonding
  • Overview of statherin-inspired peptides and their role in pellicle formation and mineral retention
  • Commercialization barriers: patent positioning, formulation pitfalls, and the path from bench to brand

💡 Key Takeaways

  • True enamel regrowth remains the holy grail—no current product fully delivers.
  • Most protein-based innovations mimic nature, but stability, pH, and formulation compatibility are critical.
  • Tooth remineralization isn't just about ingredients—it’s about the delivery system, the science, and the regulations.
  • Protein-based oral care has promise, but formulating for real-world use is harder than it looks.

📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD)

🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com

 📄 Research Profile: Robert Karlinsey on ResearchGate

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About the Podcast

Dental Formulator's Playbook
The Dental Formulator’s Playbook is where science meets strategy in the world of oral health innovation. Hosted by Dr. Rob Karlinsey, a seasoned dental researcher and independent formulator, this podcast is your behind-the-scenes pass to what really goes into creating cutting-edge dental products.

Whether you're a dentist, a dental brand, or just someone curious about how toothpaste, rinses, and other oral care products are developed, you'll find practical insights and real-world takeaways in every episode. Dr. Karlinsey keeps it straightforward and engaging—no fluff, just clear, thoughtful explanations based on years of experience in the lab and the industry.

This show is all about helping dental professionals and product developers think differently, make better decisions, and stay ahead of the curve. If you care about science, results, and doing things the right way, you're in the right place.

About your host

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Robert Karlinsey

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients