Investigating how bacteria from the mouth may influence Alzheimer's disease.

Roles of Periodontal Bacteria-Derived Dihydroceramides in Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10828006

This study is looking at how bacteria from gum disease might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, specifically how certain substances they produce could impact brain health, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or treat Alzheimer's that could help patients in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10828006 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between periodontal bacteria and Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how substances produced by these bacteria might affect brain health. The study aims to understand the role of dihydroceramides, a type of lipid, in the development and progression of Alzheimer's. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways linking oral health to cognitive decline. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with a history of periodontal disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease or periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by highlighting the importance of oral health.

How similar studies have performed: While the connection between oral health and Alzheimer's is being explored, this specific approach focusing on dihydroceramides is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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 Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
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.