How certain fatty acids help heal gum disease

Mechanisms of Pro-Resolving Mediators in Periodontal Regeneration

NIH-funded research Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-10764989

This study is looking at how taking dietary supplements with certain fatty acids might help people with gum disease by promoting healing and improving gum health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAda Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-10764989 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how dietary supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can improve outcomes for patients with periodontitis, a serious gum disease. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these fatty acids work, particularly focusing on their metabolites that may activate specific receptors on stem cells involved in healing. By using a pig model, researchers will test the effects of these supplements on periodontal regeneration and stem cell function. The goal is to optimize nutritional strategies for better management of gum disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with periodontitis who may benefit from dietary interventions.

Not a fit: Patients without periodontal disease or those who do not respond to dietary changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations and treatments for patients suffering from periodontitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with dietary supplementation of EPA and DHA in managing inflammatory diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.