Investigating how periodontitis may lead to Alzheimer's disease through succinate signaling
Official title: Succinate signaling in periodontitis induced neuroinflammation and dementia
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11247610 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gum disease might be linked to Alzheimer's by checking how a certain substance in the brain, called succinate, affects brain cells and inflammation, and it's aimed at helping people understand the connection between oral health and brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $632,374 |
| NIH project number | 7R01AG080696-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11247610 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a diagnosis of periodontitis who are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontitis or those who do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) by examining the role of succinate, a compound that increases in the cerebrospinal fluid of affected individuals. The study aims to understand how succinate activates specific receptors in microglial cells, which are immune cells in the brain, potentially leading to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. By using animal models, the researchers will investigate the mechanisms by which periodontitis may increase the risk of developing AD, focusing on the interactions between oral bacteria, inflammation, and brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease in patients with periodontitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a link between oral health and cognitive decline, suggesting that this research could build on established findings, although the specific focus on succinate signaling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Xin — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Li, Xin
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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.