Role of oral bacteria on blood vessel health in diabetes
Official title: Role of Oral Microbiota on Vascular Function
Funded at Meharry Medical College · NIH-11398214 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project looks at how gum disease and the bacteria in the mouth affect blood vessels and heart risk in adults with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Meharry Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $145,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM149440-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11398214 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with Diabetes Mellitus who have or are at risk for periodontal disease may be eligible for related tests or future trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontal disease or diabetes-related vascular risk may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
In people with diabetes, gum disease and oral bacteria may worsen vascular problems. The study uses lab and animal models to understand how oral infection lowers protective molecules like BH4 and NO, increases oxidative stress, and drives inflammation that harms blood vessels. By exploring the link between periodontal infection and vascular dysfunction, the research aims to identify mechanisms that could be targeted to protect heart and blood vessel health. Treatments or lifestyle changes that reduce oral bacteria could potentially improve vascular outcomes for patients with diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could lead to new strategies to protect blood vessel health in diabetes by addressing oral health and related inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown a link between periodontal infection and vascular dysfunction, with supportive data in both humans and animal models.
Where this research is happening
-
Meharry Medical College
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gangula, Pandu R — Meharry Medical College
- Study coordinator: Gangula, Pandu R
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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.