How certain bacteria attach to teeth and form dental plaque
Binding specificity and transcriptional regulation of antigen I/II adhesins in Streptococcus gordonii
This study looks at how a common bacteria in your mouth, called Streptococcus gordonii, sticks to your teeth using special proteins, and it aims to understand how this process leads to plaque buildup, which can cause dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900449 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Streptococcus gordonii, a common oral bacterium, uses specific proteins called adhesins to attach to the surfaces of teeth and contribute to dental plaque formation. By studying the interactions between these adhesins and components in saliva, the research aims to understand the initial steps of biofilm development in the mouth. The project will explore how the expression of these proteins changes over time and how this affects the bacteria's ability to form biofilms, which are linked to oral diseases like cavities and chronic periodontitis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk for dental plaque-related conditions, such as those with chronic periodontitis or frequent dental caries.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have dental health issues or those who have already undergone extensive dental treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing dental plaque formation and associated oral diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial adhesion mechanisms, making this approach promising for further advancements in oral health.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aitken, Sarah — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Aitken, Sarah
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.