CEMP1 (cementum protein 1) is a critical regulator of periodontal tissue development with primary roles in cementoblast differentiation and mineralization. As a cementum-specific protein expressed in cementoblasts and their progenitors, CEMP1 promotes differentiation of multipotent periodontal ligament (PDL) cells into cementoblasts 1, while simultaneously suppressing osteoblastic differentiation pathways 1. Mechanistically, CEMP1 binds hydroxyapatite and nucleates its crystal formation 2, directly facilitating biomineralization of cementum 3. CEMP1 expression is regulated by hypoxia through HIF-1α-dependent signaling 4, calcium hydroxide via ERK pathway activation 3, and PAR1 signaling through MAPK/ERK cascade 5. Additionally, CEMP1 promotes cell proliferation and attachment in PDL-derived cells 6. Beyond periodontal regeneration, CEMP1 shows concerning cancer-related functions: it causes transformation of non-osteogenic cells into mineralizing phenotypes 6, and is significantly overexpressed in multiple cancers including leukemia, breast, prostate, and lung malignancies 6. These findings suggest dual therapeutic potential for bone/cementum regeneration and possible oncogenic mechanisms requiring further investigation 47.