New therapies to protect dental tissues from damage
Official title: Bio-Responsive and Immune Protein-Based Therapies for Inhibition of Proteolytic Enzymes in Dental Tissues
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11046637 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help keep your teeth and gums healthy by using tiny particles that can stop harmful enzymes from damaging them, which could mean fewer dental problems and less need for extractions in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 17, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $578,328 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032302-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046637 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for periodontal disease or those experiencing recurrent dental issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no dental issues or those who have already undergone extensive dental procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative therapies to preserve hard and soft dental tissues by inhibiting specific enzymes that degrade collagen, a crucial component of dental health. The approach involves using nano micelles that release powerful inhibitors when triggered by these enzymes, effectively stopping the damage before it occurs. Additionally, the study explores the use of specialized antibodies to modulate the immune response, further enhancing tissue preservation. Patients may benefit from improved dental treatments and reduced need for extractions due to conditions like periodontal disease and recurrent caries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective dental treatments that prevent tooth loss and improve overall oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar enzyme inhibition strategies in other medical fields, suggesting potential success in dental applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piovezan Fugolin, Ana Paula — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Piovezan Fugolin, Ana Paula
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.