Targeting harmful bacteria to improve treatment for gum disease
Official title: Evaluation of a microbiota-sparing therapeutic concept for periodontal disease, involving removal of pathogenic Porphyromonas and Fusobacterium
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-11031978 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to treat gum disease by targeting specific harmful bacteria while keeping the good bacteria safe, which could help improve your gum health and lower the chances of losing teeth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | February 9, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032798-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031978 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic periodontal disease, particularly those with significant inflammation and risk of tooth loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have periodontal disease or those with conditions that contraindicate participation in clinical trials may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treating periodontal disease by focusing on the harmful bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum. The goal is to develop a narrow-spectrum therapeutic agent that selectively eliminates these pathogens without disrupting the beneficial oral microbiota. By targeting a specific enzyme involved in bacterial fatty acid synthesis, the treatment aims to reduce inflammation and promote a healthier oral environment. Patients may benefit from improved gum health and reduced risk of tooth loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for periodontal disease, reducing inflammation and preserving oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific bacterial pathogens in periodontal disease, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hurdle, Julian G — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hurdle, Julian G
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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.