Investigating the role of Fusobacterium nucleatum in oral and other diseases

Advanced genetic systems for Fusobacterium nucleatum in oral and extra-oral pathologies

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11123679

This study is looking at a specific bacteria called Fusobacterium nucleatum to see how it affects oral health and diseases, like gum disease and oral cancer, as well as other serious health issues, with the hope of finding better treatment options for people dealing with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123679 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Fusobacterium nucleatum, a bacterium that plays a significant role in oral health and disease. The team aims to understand how this bacterium contributes to various oral diseases, such as periodontitis and oral cancer, as well as other serious conditions like colorectal cancer and pregnancy complications. By utilizing advanced genetic techniques, they will analyze different strains of this bacterium to uncover its mechanisms of pathogenesis and how it thrives in disease states. This could lead to new insights into treatment options for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with oral diseases, colorectal cancer, or those experiencing complications during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to Fusobacterium nucleatum or those not experiencing oral or systemic diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from oral diseases and related systemic conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the microbiota's role in disease can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 2026-06-10 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.