Investigating how specific immune cells contribute to the recurrence of gum disease
Official title: The Role of CD4+ Memory T cell Subtypes in Periodontal Disease Recurrence
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11310401 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the body might be involved in the return of gum disease, using a special mouse model to see how these cells react to germs and affect gum health over time, which could help us find better ways to treat and prevent gum problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,999 |
| NIH project number | 4R00DE032704-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11310401 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have experienced recurrent periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with periodontal disease or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of CD4+ memory T cells in the recurrence of periodontal disease, a common gum condition. By using a specialized mouse model, the researchers aim to explore how these immune cells respond to microbial antigens and their impact on gum health over time. The study will analyze how repeated episodes of periodontal disease affect the immune response and bone loss in the gums. This approach could lead to better insights into the underlying mechanisms of gum disease recurrence and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for periodontal disease, reducing its recurrence and associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses can lead to significant advancements in managing chronic diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alvarez Rivas, Carla — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Alvarez Rivas, Carla
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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.