How a bacteria linked to dental plaque affects diseases like preterm birth and colorectal cancer
Official title: Metabolic modulation of Fusobacterium nucleatum virulence
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10792950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of bacteria linked to dental plaque, called Fusobacterium nucleatum, might contribute to problems like preterm birth and colorectal cancer by figuring out how it avoids the immune system and grows in places like the placenta, which could help us learn more about its effects on health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $237,450 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032906-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10792950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals and patients at risk for colorectal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any connection to dental health issues or those not at risk for the diseases studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Fusobacterium nucleatum, a bacteria associated with dental plaque, in causing diseases such as preterm birth and colorectal cancer. The study focuses on how this bacteria can evade the immune system and thrive in different parts of the body, particularly the placenta. Researchers will explore how the metabolism of ethanolamine, a compound found in the placenta, influences the bacteria's ability to cause disease. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into the virulence of this pathogen and its impact on health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases linked to Fusobacterium nucleatum.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding bacterial metabolism can lead to breakthroughs in treating infections.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ton-That, Hung — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Ton-That, Hung
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.