Finding small molecules that help bacteria grow in the mouth
Official title: Identification of diffusible small molecules that regulate replication of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11139695 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules made by certain bacteria can help the harmful bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is linked to gum disease, grow and multiply, and it aims to find out how these bacteria interact to improve our understanding of oral health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $241,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE034093-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139695 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic periodontitis or those at risk for systemic conditions associated with oral bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have periodontal disease or related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain small molecules produced by bacteria can influence the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium linked to gum disease and other health issues. The study aims to identify these molecules and understand their role in promoting the replication of this bacterium from low population densities. By using advanced chemical and genetic techniques, researchers will explore the interactions between Porphyromonas gingivalis and another bacterium, Veillonella parvula, to uncover the mechanisms behind their growth. This could lead to new insights into bacterial behavior in the mouth and its implications for oral health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating periodontitis and related systemic conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promise in understanding bacterial interactions and their effects on health, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diaz, Patricia — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Diaz, Patricia
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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.