How certain lipids affect bone cells in gum disease.
Official title: Mechanosensing of osteoclasts in periodontitis.
Funded at Nova Southeastern University · NIH-10923935 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance made by bacteria linked to gum disease affects bone cells that help with bone healing, aiming to find new ways to help people with periodontitis keep their bones healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Nova Southeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Lauderdale-Davie, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 4, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $90,288 |
| NIH project number | 5F32DE032907-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10923935 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with periodontitis, particularly those experiencing significant bone loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontitis or those with other unrelated dental conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific lipid produced by the bacteria associated with gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, impacts bone cells called osteoclasts. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms by which this lipid inhibits the normal functioning of these cells, which are crucial for bone regeneration. By examining the interactions between the lipid and the Piezo1 mechanosensing system in osteoclasts, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into the processes that lead to bone loss in periodontitis. This could lead to better therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance bone regeneration in patients with periodontitis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting the mechanosensing system in osteoclasts is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding the role of bacterial factors in periodontal disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale-Davie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shindo, Satoru — Nova Southeastern University
- Study coordinator: Shindo, Satoru
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Grade C Periodontitis in Young People: Genetic Clues to a Severe, Early Condition
A research team is studying why some young people develop a severe form of gum disease called Grade C periodontitis and how genetics and bacteria like Aa may contribute.
-
How HIV and HIV meds affect jaw bone and teeth
This project looks at how HIV, its treatment, and immune changes may cause jawbone and tooth loss in people living with HIV.
-
Periodontitis and HIV treatment–related bone loss in the jaw and teeth
This project studies how HIV and its treatment affect jawbone and tooth loss in people living with HIV, aiming to understand and reduce bone damage around teeth.
-
ICOS-Fc Therapy and Healing in Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
A study in adults with periodontitis will test a special protein fragment called ICOS-Fc to calm gum inflammation and protect tooth-supporting bone.
-
Oral-Gut–Bone Links in Periodontitis and Bone Loss
This research explores how gum disease could affect bone health by studying the connection between the mouth, gut, and bones in adults.
-
Diabetes-Driven Changes in Dendritic Cells and T Cells in Gum Disease
This project studies how poorly controlled diabetes alters immune cells in periodontitis to worsen gum disease.
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.