How small RNA molecules from the host interact with oral bacteria
Official title: Host tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) mediate interactions between host and oral microbes
Funded at Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-11015875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny molecules from our cells that might help our immune system manage the good and bad bacteria in our mouths, which could lead to better ways to keep our oral health in check.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | February 22, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $524,685 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE030943-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with oral health issues or those interested in understanding the role of oral bacteria in their health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any oral health concerns or those without significant microbial interactions in their oral cavity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of small RNA molecules, specifically tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), in the interactions between the host's immune system and oral microbes. The study focuses on how these tsRNAs, which are released in exosomes from oral cells, can modulate bacterial gene expression and influence the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the mouth. By examining the response of human oral cells to specific bacteria, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms of immune defense and microbial regulation at mucosal surfaces.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing oral health and preventing infections by enhancing our understanding of host-microbe interactions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using tsRNAs in oral microbiome interactions is relatively novel, similar studies in other contexts have shown promising results in understanding host-microbe dynamics.
Where this research is happening
-
Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Xuesong — Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: He, Xuesong
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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.