Link between a specific bacteria and Gulf War Illness in older veterans
Official title: Association of periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis with the severity of Gulf War Illness (GWI) neuroinflammation in relation to aging
Funded at Rlr VA Medical Center · NIH-10927553 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific bacteria related to gum disease might affect brain inflammation in older veterans with Gulf War Illness, to help understand how dental health could be linked to their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rlr VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I21BX006307-01A2 |
| Project ID | NIH-10927553 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 65 and older who have been diagnosed with Gulf War Illness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have Gulf War Illness may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis may contribute to neuroinflammation in veterans suffering from Gulf War Illness (GWI), particularly in those aged 65 and older. The study aims to understand the relationship between periodontitis, a common dental condition, and the severity of neuroinflammation linked to GWI. By examining the immune response and signaling pathways affected by aging, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms that exacerbate symptoms in older veterans. Participants may undergo assessments related to their dental health and neurological function to gather relevant data.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of neuroinflammation in older veterans with Gulf War Illness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between periodontal disease and neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rlr VA Medical Center
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Movila, Alexandru — Rlr VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Movila, Alexandru
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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.