How Streptococcus mutans interacts with other bacteria in the mouth
Interactions of Streptococcus mutans in Supragingival Biofilms
This study looks at how the bad bacteria that cause tooth decay, called Streptococcus mutans, interacts with the good bacteria in your mouth, with the goal of finding ways to keep your teeth healthy and prevent cavities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10666551 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between Streptococcus mutans, a key bacterium responsible for tooth decay, and other beneficial bacteria in the oral cavity. By examining how these bacteria coexist and influence each other's growth, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could prevent the harmful effects of S. mutans while preserving healthy oral flora. The research utilizes advanced techniques such as confocal microscopy to visualize these interactions in detail. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing strategies to maintain oral health and prevent dental caries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for dental caries, particularly those with a history of tooth decay or imbalances in their oral microbiome.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to dental caries or those with healthy oral microbiomes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing tooth decay by targeting harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial ones.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding microbial interactions in the oral cavity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaspar, Justin Ray — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Kaspar, Justin Ray
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.