How obesity affects immune cells in gum disease
Immunometabolic Regulation of MDSCs in Periodontitis
This study is looking at how being overweight might affect gum disease by changing certain immune cells in your body, and it aims to help people with obesity and gum issues understand how these factors are connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906085 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between obesity and periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that damages the structures supporting teeth. It focuses on how obesity leads to the expansion of specific immune cells, known as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which may contribute to bone loss in the jaw. By examining the mechanisms behind MDSC mobilization and their role in the periodontal environment, the research aims to uncover how obesity influences the progression of gum disease. Patients may be involved in studies that explore these immune responses and their implications for treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from periodontitis, particularly those who are also dealing with obesity or related metabolic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without periodontitis or those who are not affected by obesity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for periodontitis that consider a patient's obesity status and immune response.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune mechanisms involved in periodontitis, but this specific focus on obesity-related MDSC activity is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirkwood, Keith L — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Kirkwood, Keith L
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.