Investigating how oral bacteria affect immune responses in aging
Official title: CD38 signaling in aging-associated immune responses induced by oral pathogens
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11129187 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria in the mouth affect the immune system in older adults, especially focusing on a specific enzyme that might help us find new ways to treat gum disease and improve overall health as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $226,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE033977-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129187 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing periodontal disease or related inflammatory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not have periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between oral bacterial pathogens and immune responses in older adults. It aims to explore how the enzyme CD38, which is linked to inflammation and declines in a vital molecule called NAD+, influences these immune responses. By studying the effects of the oral pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, the research seeks to identify potential therapies that could reduce inflammatory bone loss associated with aging-related periodontitis. If successful, this could lead to new treatments that improve health and longevity for older individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic options to reduce inflammation and improve health in older adults suffering from periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting CD38 to improve healthspan in aged populations, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Hong — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Yu, Hong
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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.