How HIV and its treatment affect bone and tooth health

Intersection of Periodontitis with HIV-Antiretroviral Therapy-Induced Immune Reconstitution Bone Loss, on Alveolar Bone and Tooth Loss, in People Living with HIV

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11144466

This study is looking at how HIV and the medications used to treat it can affect bone health in the jaw, which is important for keeping your teeth healthy, and it's aimed at helping people living with HIV understand and improve their oral health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11144466 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART) on bone health, particularly focusing on alveolar bone loss and tooth loss in people living with HIV. It aims to understand how the immune system's reactivation during ART contributes to bone density loss, especially in the jaw area, which is crucial for dental health. The study utilizes a mouse model to explore these effects and the relationship between periodontitis and HIV, given that individuals with HIV are at a higher risk for periodontal disease. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential interventions to mitigate bone loss and improve oral health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are undergoing antiretroviral therapy and may be experiencing or at risk for bone and tooth loss.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preserving bone and dental health in individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant bone loss in HIV patients undergoing ART, indicating that this area of study is critical and has the potential for impactful findings.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.