The link between aging-related blood cell mutations and gum disease
Official title: Clonal hematopoiesis and periodontal disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11045687 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in blood stem cells as we get older, especially a common mutation called DNMT3A, might make gum disease worse, helping older adults understand how their age-related blood changes could affect their oral health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $345,313 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033643-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045687 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mutations in blood stem cells, which accumulate as people age, may contribute to the severity of periodontal disease. It focuses on a specific mutation known as DNMT3A, which is common in older adults and is associated with increased inflammation. By using preclinical models, the study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these mutated cells affect gum health and contribute to tissue destruction. Patients may gain insights into how their age-related blood changes could impact their oral health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating periodontal disease in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that age-related mutations in blood cells can influence various health conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hajishengallis, Georgios — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hajishengallis, Georgios
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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.