How a specific bacteria affects stem cells in the gums
Official title: P. gingivalis Effect on Periodontal Mesenchymal Stem Cell
Funded at Nova Southeastern University · NIH-10895469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific bacteria in the gums affects the health of important cells that help heal tissue, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent tissue and bone loss in people with gum disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Nova Southeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Lauderdale-Davie, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM150469-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10895469 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with periodontitis who may benefit from improved regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontal disease or those who do not have any gum tissue loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis impacts the death of mesenchymal stem cells in the gums, which are crucial for tissue regeneration. By understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this process, the study aims to uncover why periodontal disease leads to the loss of connective tissue and bone. The research will focus on the unique way this bacteria induces cell death, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for preventing tissue loss in patients with periodontitis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help preserve gum tissue and bone in patients suffering from periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting mesenchymal stem cells in response to this bacteria is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding bacterial impacts on tissue regeneration.
Where this research is happening
-
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale-Davie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heidari, Alireza — Nova Southeastern University
- Study coordinator: Heidari, Alireza
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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.