Exploring the link between oral health and Alzheimer's disease

Oral Cavity and Brain Cross-talk in Alzheimer's Disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA · NIH-11081718

This study is looking at how your oral health might affect the progression of Alzheimer's disease, using mice to see if changes in saliva and mouth bacteria could play a role in worsening symptoms, which could help us understand and manage the disease better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GRAND FORKS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11081718 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how changes in oral health may be related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. It uses transgenic mouse models to study the secretion of amyloid-beta (Aβ) in saliva and the impact of oral microbiome changes on both oral and brain health. By examining these relationships, the research aims to uncover whether poor oral health contributes to the development or worsening of AD symptoms. The findings could lead to new insights into the systemic nature of Alzheimer's disease and its management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it, particularly those experiencing oral health issues.

Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or significant oral health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of Alzheimer's disease through better oral health strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising links between oral health and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

GRAND FORKS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.