How a fungus and bacteria work together to cause tooth decay in young children
Official title: C. albicans interactions with S. mutans modulate cariogenic biofilm formation and virulence
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11024764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a fungus and a type of bacteria work together in kids' mouths to cause tooth decay, with the goal of finding new ways to help prevent cavities in young children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $460,885 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DE034383-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11024764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk for or suffering from severe early-childhood caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have issues related to tooth decay may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the fungus Candida albicans and the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, which are linked to severe early-childhood caries (S-ECC). The study aims to understand how these microorganisms form structured groups in saliva that enhance their ability to cause tooth decay. By examining the mechanisms of their interaction, including how they promote acid production and biofilm formation, the research seeks to identify potential targets for preventing dental caries in children. The findings could lead to new strategies for managing oral health in young patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for tooth decay in young children.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding microbial interactions in dental health, making this research a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koo, Hyun — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Koo, Hyun
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.