Effects of repeated gum disease on bone marrow health
Official title: Effects of Recurrent Periodontitis in HSC Function
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11354286 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in adults explores how recurrent periodontitis may change stem cells in the bone marrow and influence blood health over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2026 |
| Project end | June 8, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE036033-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11354286 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with periodontitis and/or contributing systemic conditions such as type 2 diabetes or blood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals without periodontitis or related blood conditions may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at whether repeated gum infections can alter blood-forming stem cells (HSCs) and potentially contribute to blood-related aging or disease. Scientists will use existing data and pilot findings to examine how inflammation from periodontitis affects HSC activity and genetic regulation. The goal is to understand if oral inflammation can translate into systemic blood changes, especially in people with diabetes or blood disorders. The study is early-stage and will focus on mechanistic links to inform future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new pathways linking oral health and blood diseases, guiding prevention or treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research has shown periodontitis can affect immune and blood cell biology, but long-term HSC effects from recurrent inflammation are still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morales-Hernandez, Antonio — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Morales-Hernandez, Antonio
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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.