Creating artificial mucins to improve oral health
Engineering Mucin Analogues to Benefit the Mouth Environment
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11087237
This study is working on creating new artificial saliva that acts like real saliva to help people with dry mouth feel more comfortable and protect their teeth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11087237 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced artificial saliva products that mimic the protective functions of natural saliva, particularly through the use of mucin analogs. Mucins are proteins that play a crucial role in oral health by providing lubrication, protecting against harmful acids, and maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. The project aims to synthesize these mucin substitutes by understanding their complex structures and functions, ultimately leading to products that can better support individuals with dry mouth or other oral health issues. Patients may benefit from improved oral comfort and protection against dental problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, due to various medical conditions or treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with healthy saliva production and no oral health issues may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for individuals suffering from dry mouth and related oral health issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing mucin analogs for various applications, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GODULA, KAMIL — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: GODULA, KAMIL
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.