Investigating how specific bacteria affect oral health and inflammation

Role of Notch-1/PLA2-IIA in oral dysbiosis, inflammation, and periodontal disease

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11083120

This study is looking at how bad bacteria in your mouth affect your immune system and contribute to gum disease, focusing on a specific protein, and it aims to help us understand how to better protect our oral health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083120 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the interactions between harmful bacteria in the mouth and the body's immune response, particularly focusing on a protein called PLA2-IIA and its role in periodontal disease. By studying how these bacteria disrupt the balance of oral microbiota, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to inflammation and gum disease. The approach includes using animal models to observe changes in bacterial populations and immune responses, providing insights that could translate to human health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing periodontal disease or related oral health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of oral health issues or those not affected by periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for periodontal disease and improve oral health outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in oral health, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.