Understanding a unique group of bacteria in the mouth
Official title: Domestication and characterization of TM7-the most elusive oral phylum
Funded at Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-10999915 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a type of bacteria called TM7 that lives in our mouths and can increase when we have gum problems like gingivitis or periodontitis, to better understand how these bacteria interact with others and how they might affect our oral health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $587,904 |
| NIH project number | 2R01DE023810-12 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999915 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing gum diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any oral health issues or those not affected by gum diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a specific group of bacteria known as TM7, which are commonly found in the human oral microbiome and become more abundant during gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. The researchers aim to explore the biology and interactions of TM7 bacteria with their bacterial hosts, focusing on how these interactions may influence oral health and disease. By isolating and characterizing these bacteria, the study seeks to uncover their roles in microbial ecology and potential contributions to oral diseases. This research employs advanced genetic and microbiological techniques to understand the dynamics of these bacterial interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of gum diseases and potential therapeutic targets for improving oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully isolated and studied similar bacteria, indicating potential for meaningful discoveries in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Xuesong — Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: He, Xuesong
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.