Investigating how diabetes worsens gum disease through a specific protein interaction
Official title: The role of CXCL10-CXCR3 axis in the compounding effects of diabetes mellitus in periodontitis
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10740433 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how diabetes can make gum disease worse and is trying to find new ways to help improve gum health for people with diabetes by focusing on a specific molecular interaction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $432,209 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE031906-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10740433 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with poorly controlled diabetes who are experiencing periodontitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with well-controlled diabetes or those without periodontitis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between diabetes mellitus and periodontitis, a serious gum disease. It focuses on the CXCL10-CXCR3 axis, a molecular interaction that may exacerbate inflammation and bone loss in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. By studying this relationship, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could improve periodontal health in diabetic patients. The approach includes both experimental models and potential interventions targeting the CXCR3 receptor.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve gum health for patients with diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting inflammatory pathways in similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pirih, Flavia — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Pirih, Flavia
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A non-invasive MRI study in pregnant people with gestational diabetes and those without will map how placental blood vessels work and relate to baby outcomes.
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Diabetes-Driven Changes in Dendritic Cells and T Cells in Gum Disease
This project studies how poorly controlled diabetes alters immune cells in periodontitis to worsen gum disease.
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.