Understanding how aging and autoimmune diseases affect salivary gland function
Official title: Senescence and Salivary Gland Dysfunction
Funded at State University of New York at Albany · NIH-10892708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s Syndrome affect your salivary glands, which can lead to less saliva and cause problems like dental issues and trouble digesting food, with the goal of finding ways to help improve saliva production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Albany NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $387,186 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE033253-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome or those experiencing salivary gland dysfunction due to aging or radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with salivary gland function who do not have autoimmune diseases or age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cellular aging and autoimmune diseases, particularly Sjögren’s Syndrome, on the function of salivary glands. It aims to understand how the accumulation of senescent cells in these glands leads to reduced saliva production, which can cause various health issues such as dental problems and digestive difficulties. The study will explore the mechanisms behind this dysfunction and how factors like radiation therapy and normal aging contribute to the condition. By examining the cellular processes involved, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving salivary gland function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve saliva production and overall health for patients with salivary gland dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting cellular senescence can improve tissue function in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Albany
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Larsen, Melinda — State University of New York at Albany
- Study coordinator: Larsen, Melinda
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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.