Investigating how a specific receptor in mast cells affects gum disease
Official title: Role of a novel G protein-coupled mast cell receptor-mediated pathways in periodontal disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10902664 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new receptor in mast cells that might play a role in gum disease, and it's for people who want to understand how this could help improve treatments for their periodontal issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | September 3, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $446,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE033537-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10902664 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic periodontitis who may benefit from new treatment approaches targeting mast cell activity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontal disease or those with other unrelated dental conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a newly identified receptor in mast cells that may contribute to periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of teeth. The study will explore how this receptor, known as MRGPRX2, influences mast cell activation and recruitment in the context of gum disease. By using humanized mouse models, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind mast cell involvement in periodontal inflammation and bone loss, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that target mast cell activity, potentially improving outcomes for patients with periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting MRGPRX2 in mast cells is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding mast cell roles in other inflammatory diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ali, Hydar — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Ali, Hydar
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Precision nanomedicine to calm inflammation and protect bone in gum disease
A new, targeted nanomedicine approach aims to reduce gum inflammation and prevent bone loss in adults with periodontal disease.
-
Biofilm structure and its role in the start of gum disease
A researchers team will study how tiny communities of bacteria at the gumline interact with the mouth’s tissues to spark inflammation that leads from healthy gums to periodontal disease.
-
Xylitol to Prevent Periodontal Disease and Preterm Birth in Pregnancy and Early Childhood
A safe, inexpensive chewable gum approach using xylitol is tested to help pregnant people reduce gum disease and lower the chance of preterm birth and related child health problems.
-
Periodontal Health in Newborns: Reducing Small Vulnerable Newborn Deaths in Nepal
A large study in Nepal will test whether a simple oral care package started in early pregnancy can lower the risk of tiny, high-risk newborns dying in their first month.
-
Gingival keratinocyte ferroptosis in periodontal disease pathogenesis
A study exploring how iron-related cell death in gum cells may drive gum disease and bone loss in periodontitis, and what this could mean for future treatments.
-
Periodontal health and dementia risk in a large health system
A large health system will study whether gum disease and its treatment relate to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias over time.
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.