Understanding Bacteria That Cause Tooth Decay
BrpA in Virulence Modulation of Streptococcus mutans
['FUNDING_R01'] · LSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER · NIH-11144418
This research aims to understand how a specific protein in bacteria causes tooth decay, hoping to find new ways to prevent cavities.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | LSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11144418 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Tooth decay, or cavities, is a common and costly problem worldwide, caused by bacteria forming sticky films called dental plaque on teeth. Our previous work showed that a protein called BrpA is very important for how these bacteria, called Streptococcus mutans, form these films and cause cavities. This project will dig deeper into how BrpA works and how its production is controlled. We also want to find small molecules that can target BrpA to stop these bacteria from causing damage, ultimately leading to new strategies for fighting cavities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit anyone susceptible to or suffering from dental cavities in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for existing dental conditions would not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or preventative measures that specifically target the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, offering a novel approach to oral health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work supported by an earlier grant has already generated important evidence about the role of the BrpA protein in tooth decay.
Where this research is happening
NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES
- LSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER — NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEN, ZEZHANG TOM — LSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER
- Study coordinator: WEN, ZEZHANG TOM
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 below.