The role of metabolic processes in gum disease and health.
Official title: Metabolic-Purinergic fitness in periodontal health and disease
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11127197 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme related to energy in our cells might help reduce inflammation and bone loss in gum disease, especially for older adults, and it hopes to find new ways to improve gum health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $381,216 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DE033982-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127197 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing or at risk for 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 certain enzymes involved in nucleotide metabolism affect inflammation and bone loss in periodontal disease, particularly in older adults. It focuses on the enzyme ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73) and its role in converting extracellular ATP to adenosine, which may help control inflammation in gum tissues. By studying the effects of these metabolic processes, the research aims to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for managing periodontal disease. Patients may be involved in assessments that explore these metabolic pathways and their implications for gum health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for periodontal disease, particularly for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on CD73 in periodontal disease is novel, similar metabolic approaches have shown promise in other inflammatory conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morandini, Ana Carolina — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Morandini, Ana Carolina
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.