Investigating how Type I Interferon affects gum disease
Official title: Assessing the role of Type I Interferon (IFN-I) in Periodontal Disease
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10991010 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called Type I Interferon affects gum disease and its connection to other health issues like diabetes, with the goal of finding better ways to treat and understand this common condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $388,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032307-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991010 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are experiencing periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no history of periodontal disease or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Type I Interferon (IFN-I) in periodontal disease, which is a common inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The study aims to understand how IFN-I influences disease progression and its relationship with systemic conditions like diabetes. By analyzing biomarkers in the gingival fluid of patients and using animal models, researchers hope to uncover protective mechanisms of IFN-I against bone loss associated with gum disease. This could lead to improved classification and treatment strategies for patients with varying disease phenotypes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management and treatment options for patients suffering from periodontal disease and its systemic associations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cytokines in periodontal disease, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Shaoping — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Shaoping
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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.