How oral bacteria affect blood vessel health
Official title: Role of Oral Microbiota on Vascular Function
Funded at Meharry Medical College · NIH-10918050 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gum disease might affect blood vessel health in people with diabetes, focusing on how infections in the mouth can lead to problems with blood flow and heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Meharry Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $145,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM149440-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918050 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who also suffer from periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between oral health, specifically periodontal diseases, and vascular function in individuals with diabetes. It explores how chronic periodontal infections can lead to reduced nitric oxide levels, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood vessels. By studying the inflammatory responses and oxidative stress caused by oral bacteria, the research aims to understand the mechanisms that contribute to cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients. The approach includes both human cell studies and animal models to assess the impact of oral microbiota on vascular health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients by addressing oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown a significant link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Meharry Medical College
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gangula, Pandu R — Meharry Medical College
- Study coordinator: Gangula, Pandu R
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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.