Understanding dry mouth caused by hepatitis C virus
Official title: Exploring Mechanisms of Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Xerostomia
Funded at Healthpartners Institute · NIH-11122313 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chronic hepatitis C can cause dry mouth, and it aims to understand the changes in saliva and salivary glands in people with this condition, so we can find better ways to help those who experience this uncomfortable symptom.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Healthpartners Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 20, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $242,972 |
| NIH project number | 5K22DE032046-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122313 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C who experience symptoms of dry mouth.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without chronic hepatitis C or those who do not experience xerostomia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection leads to dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia. The study aims to explore the changes in minor salivary glands and saliva composition in patients with HCV, which may help in understanding the clinical features associated with this symptom. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to improve the management of xerostomia in affected individuals. Patients will be assessed for their salivary gland function and saliva characteristics to correlate these findings with their clinical symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management strategies for patients suffering from dry mouth due to hepatitis C.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been research on hepatitis C and its systemic effects, this specific investigation into xerostomia mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Healthpartners Institute
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maldonado-Ortiz, José Orlando — Healthpartners Institute
- Study coordinator: Maldonado-Ortiz, José Orlando
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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.