Understanding how a bacteria causes tooth decay
Official title: Structural and Functional Studies on the Glucosyltransferases of the Dental Caries Pathogen Streptococcus mutans
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11167778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common bacteria called Streptococcus mutans causes tooth decay by using special enzymes to stick to your teeth and create harmful sugars, with the hope of finding better ways to prevent or treat cavities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | August 12, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $621,682 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033232-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167778 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or currently experiencing dental caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have dental caries or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the bacteria Streptococcus mutans contributes to dental caries, a common tooth decay disease. It focuses on the role of specific enzymes called glucosyltransferases that help the bacteria attach to teeth and form biofilms. By studying how these enzymes produce different types of sugars from dietary sucrose, the research aims to uncover the molecular processes that lead to tooth decay. This knowledge could help in developing new strategies to prevent or treat dental caries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments or preventive measures for dental caries, improving oral health for many individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial mechanisms related to dental diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deivanayagam, Champion Christdoss Selvakumar — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Deivanayagam, Champion Christdoss Selvakumar
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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.