How bacteria affect gum disease and immune response
Bacterial sialometabolic activity impacts periodontal immunity and microbiota
This study is looking at how certain bacteria that cause gum disease can mess with your immune system, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with periodontitis keep their gums healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 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 ID | NIH-10980426 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific bacteria in the development of periodontitis, a serious gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and is linked to other health issues. The study focuses on a group of bacteria known as the 'red-complex' and examines how their enzymes, particularly sialidase, disrupt the immune response and contribute to the disease. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into how these bacteria thrive and affect oral health. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatments for gum disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been diagnosed with periodontitis.
Not a fit: Patients with no signs of gum disease or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for periodontitis, potentially reducing tooth loss and associated health risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of bacterial enzymes in periodontal disease, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Ashu — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Ashu
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 below.