How the mouth's bacteria affect lung health in people with HIV in Botswana
Official title: The impact of the oral microbiome on pulmonary function among people with HIV in Botswana
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11009042 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the mouth might affect lung health in people living with HIV in Botswana, especially in relation to conditions like COPD, to help improve their overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $186,349 |
| NIH project number | 5K23HL166022-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009042 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV in Botswana, particularly those experiencing respiratory symptoms or concerns.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or those with pre-existing severe lung conditions unrelated to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the oral microbiome and lung function in individuals living with HIV in Botswana. It aims to understand how changes in mouth bacteria may contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and systemic inflammation in this population. By analyzing samples and health data, the study seeks to uncover potential links that could inform better health outcomes for people with HIV. The research will also help develop the investigator's skills for future independent studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of lung health in people with HIV, potentially reducing COPD-related complications.
How similar studies have gone: While studies in the US have shown links between oral microbiome composition and COPD in people with HIV, this research is novel as it focuses on a sub-Saharan African population.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patel, Sweta Mahesh — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Patel, Sweta Mahesh
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.