How bacteria affect bone loss in periodontal disease
Official title: Osteocytes-bacteria interaction via NOD1 as a mechanism of bone loss in periodontitis
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11119127 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria that cause gum disease affect bone cells in your jaw, which can lead to tooth loss, and it aims to find new ways to help people who aren't getting better with current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | June 14, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $322,696 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE034787-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119127 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from periodontal disease, particularly those who have not responded to current treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with periodontal disease who respond well to existing treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interaction between osteocytes, a type of bone cell, and specific bacteria that cause periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. The study focuses on understanding how these bacteria trigger a response in osteocytes that results in bone loss. By examining the role of a receptor called NOD1, which detects bacterial components, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this process. The ultimate goal is to develop new strategies to prevent tooth loss in patients who do not respond to existing treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent tooth loss in patients with periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the molecular mechanisms of bone loss in periodontal disease can lead to successful treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kittaka, Mizuho — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Kittaka, Mizuho
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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.