How race and ethnicity affect inflammation and microbiome interactions in gum disease
The Impact of Race/Ethnicity on Inflammation Regulation and Microbiome Interactions in Periodontitis
This study is looking at how race and ethnicity affect inflammation and gut bacteria in people with severe gum disease, specifically focusing on Mexican Americans and White Americans, to help find better treatment options that fit different backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10783022 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how race and ethnicity influence the regulation of inflammation and interactions with the microbiome in individuals suffering from periodontitis, a severe gum disease. The study will recruit participants from two racial groups—Mexican Americans and White Americans—both with severe periodontitis and healthy controls. By analyzing molecular profiles and immune responses, the research aims to uncover biological factors that contribute to the higher prevalence of periodontitis in certain ethnic groups. This could lead to a better understanding of how to tailor treatments based on racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include Mexican Americans and White Americans diagnosed with severe periodontitis or healthy individuals from these groups.
Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the Mexican American or White American ethnic groups may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for periodontitis that consider a patient's racial or ethnic background.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding ethnic differences in disease mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Chun-Teh — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lee, Chun-Teh
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.