Unveiling the Biochemical Pathway Responsible for Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie) by Tracking Enzymatic Activity of Apoptosis Pathways

Authors

• Becca Ringstad, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

5-1-2026

Disciplines

Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology | Biology | Cell and Developmental Biology

Advisor

Claire Otteson

Abstract

Ankyloglossia (Tongue-tie) is a condition that is caused by failed cellular degeneration leading to a short lingual frenulum. This short lingual frenulum tethers the tongue to the bottom palate of the mouth and leads to problems, including breastfeeding for infants, depriving them of important proteins that build the gut microbiome, strengthen the immune system, and fight off antigens. If left untreated, it leads to problems with speech articulation, airway development, and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment involves a frenectomy, which is the release of the short lingual frenulum using surgical scissors or a laser. Ankyloglossia can occur with conditions such as cleft palates and researchers have found specific genes that lead to this mutation. However, we do not know why tongue-ties can occur on their own. The goal of this research is to understand the direct biochemical pathway that leads to isolated ankyloglossia. Using the gene that is involved with the formation of cleft palates, this research uses gene-editing techniques to track enzymatic activity that leads to failed cell death causing the short lingual frenulum. With an understanding of the specific pathway that leads to ankyloglossia, future research can discover new treatments that could be given in utero.

Recommended Citation

Ringstad, Becca, "Unveiling the Biochemical Pathway Responsible for Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie) by Tracking Enzymatic Activity of Apoptosis Pathways" (2026). Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-). 328.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/ur_cscday/328