Intermittent fasting may improve salivary gland function in Sjögren’s syndrome

Intermittent fasting restores salivary gland function in Sjögren’s syndrome

NIH-funded research Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-11032004

This study is looking at how intermittent fasting might help improve the function of salivary glands in people with Sjögren’s syndrome, a condition that causes dry mouth, by encouraging the growth of healthy cells and protecting against damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAda Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-11032004 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of intermittent fasting on salivary gland function in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to dry mouth and various oral health issues. The study aims to enhance the regeneration of salivary glands while protecting them from autoimmune damage. By examining the biological mechanisms involved, including the proliferation of salivary gland stem cells and the modulation of immune responses, the research seeks to provide a novel therapeutic approach for managing this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome who experience symptoms of dry mouth.

Not a fit: Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome who do not experience significant dry mouth or have other unrelated health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved salivary gland function and quality of life for patients suffering from Sjögren’s syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results with intermittent fasting in animal models, suggesting potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.