P. gingivalis and stem cells in gum disease
Official title: P. gingivalis Effect on Periodontal Mesenchymal Stem Cell
Funded at Nova Southeastern University · NIH-11396380 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant looks at how a gum bacteria may cause gum tissue stem cells to die, which could explain why periodontal disease damages teeth support.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Nova Southeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Lauderdale-Davie, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM150469-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11396380 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with periodontitis or at risk of periodontal tissue loss may benefit from future therapies emerging from this work.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals without periodontal disease are unlikely to directly benefit.
What this research studies
The project aims to understand the molecular steps by which Porphyromonas gingivalis triggers programmed cell death in periodontal mesenchymal stem cells, potentially hindering tissue regeneration. By studying these cells in the context of periodontitis, researchers hope to map the pathways leading to tissue loss and identify points where therapies could prevent damage. The work combines cellular biology with mechanisms of apoptosis to uncover how the pathogen disrupts regenerative processes in the jaw. If successful, findings could guide development of treatments that protect connective tissue and bone around teeth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If the mechanism is clarified, new strategies could help preserve gum tissue and bone around teeth in people with periodontitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests pathogens can influence cell death in dental tissues, but this study seeks specific links to periodontal MSCs and Pg.
Where this research is happening
-
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale-Davie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heidari, Alireza — Nova Southeastern University
- Study coordinator: Heidari, Alireza
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.