The role of oral bacteria in brain inflammation and dysfunction
Official title: Emerging role of oral spirochetes to promote neuroinflammation and dysfunction
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10993232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria from gum disease might affect brain health and memory in older adults, especially those 65 and up, to see if there's a link between bad oral health and thinking problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $442,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG083727-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, who may be experiencing cognitive decline or have a history of periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 years old or do not have any oral health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how oral spirochetes, a type of bacteria associated with gum disease, may contribute to inflammation in the brain and cognitive decline in older adults. It focuses on understanding the connection between poor oral health and neurological conditions, particularly in individuals aged 65 and older. By examining the interactions between these bacteria and the brain's immune system, the study aims to uncover potential pathways that lead to cognitive impairment. The research utilizes advanced microbiological and neurological assessments to explore these relationships.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in older adults by improving oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results linking oral health to cognitive function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Visser, Michelle B — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Visser, Michelle B
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.