Investigating how calprotectin affects immune responses in gum disease
Official title: Calprotectin-mediated CD69 signaling in periodontitis
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11061055 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called calprotectin affects the immune response to the germs that cause gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss, and it aims to find new ways to help manage this common dental issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,632 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE030095-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061055 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing or at risk for chronic periodontitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have periodontitis or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the immune response to the microbial biofilm that causes periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory condition leading to tooth loss in adults. The study examines the role of calprotectin, a protein that may influence immune cell behavior, particularly in T regulatory cells. By using a modified mouse model, researchers aim to determine how calprotectin affects inflammation and bone destruction during the progression of periodontitis. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for managing this common dental disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent periodontitis, ultimately reducing tooth loss and improving oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in periodontal disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Costalonga, Massimo — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Costalonga, Massimo
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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.