Investigating how certain bacteria contribute to tooth decay in young children
Official title: Novel small molecule biosynthetic gene clusters in Streptococcus mutans and virulence of dental caries
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11092008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain bacteria called Streptococcus mutans might be making tooth decay worse in young kids under six, and it aims to find new ways to help prevent cavities in children who are at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | May 18, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00DE029527-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092008 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under six years old who are at high risk for developing dental caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than six years or do not have a history of dental caries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific bacterium, Streptococcus mutans, in causing severe early childhood caries (SECC) in children under six years old. The study will explore a novel gene cluster in this bacterium that may enhance its ability to cause tooth decay. By analyzing clinical strains of S. mutans from children at high risk for caries, researchers will assess how these genetic factors influence the bacterium's virulence and survival. The findings could lead to better prevention strategies for dental caries in young children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for dental caries in young children, ultimately enhancing their dental health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial genetics can lead to significant advancements in treating infectious diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Momeni, Stephanie — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Momeni, Stephanie
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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.