Investigating T cell responses in a type of gum disease linked to a specific oral bacteria.
Official title: T cell response in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans-associated periodontal disease
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11309216 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific type of immune cell, called T cells, reacts to a bacteria linked to serious gum disease, using blood samples from patients with this condition, to help us understand how these immune responses might lead to tissue damage in the gums.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,627 |
| NIH project number | 4R00DE032747-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11309216 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease linked to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontal disease or those who do not have a response to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how T cells, a type of immune cell, respond to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, a bacteria associated with severe periodontal disease. By analyzing blood samples from patients with periodontal disease, researchers will assess the immune response to this bacteria and its role in tissue destruction. The study will also involve creating specialized mice that can help further investigate the effects of these T cells on gum disease. This approach aims to provide insights into the immune mechanisms that contribute to periodontal disease and its complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent periodontal disease and its associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in periodontal disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Drake Winslow — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Williams, Drake Winslow
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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.