How nerve signals influence the health of gum tissue
Official title: Neurological control of periodontal homeostasis through microRNA, TGF-beta, and Wnt signaling
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10927605 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how nerve signals affect the health of your gums and teeth, especially when certain molecules are involved, and by examining what happens when nerves are damaged, researchers hope to find new ways to keep your gums healthy and prevent dental problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 12, 2023 |
| Project end | August 11, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $356,214 |
| NIH project number | 7R01DE027930-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10927605 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with periodontal disease or those at risk of gum health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no periodontal issues or those who have already undergone extensive dental procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between nerve signals and the health of periodontal tissue, which supports teeth. It focuses on how specific molecules, like microRNA and signaling proteins, affect the remodeling of this tissue. By studying a model where nerves are intentionally damaged, researchers aim to understand the changes in gene expression that occur and how these changes impact periodontal health. The findings could lead to new insights into maintaining gum health and preventing related dental issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for maintaining periodontal health and preventing tooth loss.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown that understanding nerve signaling can impact tissue health and regeneration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diekwisch, Tom — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Diekwisch, Tom
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.