New injectable materials to treat gum disease and bone loss
Official title: Novel Injectable Biomaterials for Periodontitis
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11088276 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new injectable treatments for gum disease that can help heal your gums and bones, making it easier for you to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | May 13, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE033019-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088276 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 30 years old who are experiencing periodontitis or related bone loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild gum disease or those under 30 years old may not receive significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative injectable biomaterials to treat periodontitis, a common gum disease that can lead to significant bone loss and tooth loss in adults. The approach combines tissue engineering with the use of specific metabolites and antimicrobial agents to enhance bone regeneration and reduce inflammation. By collaborating with experienced periodontists, the research aims to create effective treatments that can be directly applied to affected areas, potentially improving patient outcomes. The study will also explore the use of hydrogels to deliver these treatments locally, targeting the root causes of periodontitis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for periodontitis, reducing the risk of tooth loss and improving overall oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials and tissue engineering for periodontal treatments, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Hongli — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Sun, Hongli
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Grade C Periodontitis in Young People: Genetic Clues to a Severe, Early Condition
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-
Diabetes-Driven Changes in Dendritic Cells and T Cells in Gum Disease
This project studies how poorly controlled diabetes alters immune cells in periodontitis to worsen gum disease.
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.