How the TRPC1 calcium channel helps control saliva production
TRPC1, Calcium, and Saliva Secretion
Looking at whether the TRPC1 calcium channel can help improve saliva production for people with dry mouth, including Sjögren's syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11313822 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on a calcium channel called TRPC1 that appears to be key for saliva release from salivary gland cells. Researchers will study how TRPC1 is held in place and regulated in the cell membrane and how those mechanisms differ when glands do not respond properly, as seen in Sjögren's syndrome. They will use lab experiments on gland cells and tissue samples and models that measure calcium signals and fluid secretion. The goal is to map the steps that fail in dysfunctional glands so future treatments can target them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with chronic salivary gland dysfunction or dry mouth symptoms, especially those with primary Sjögren's syndrome.
Not a fit: People whose dry mouth is caused primarily by medication side effects or by irreversible radiation damage to the glands may not benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to restore or increase saliva production for people with chronic dry mouth.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have identified TRPC1 as an important calcium channel for saliva secretion, but translating that knowledge into therapies is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Brij B — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Singh, Brij B
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.