Understanding how aging cells affect salivary gland function in Sjögren’s syndrome
Official title: Cellular senescence contributes to salivary gland dysfunction in Sjögren’s syndrome
Funded at Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-11138212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging cells might be causing problems in the salivary glands of people with Sjögren’s syndrome, and it will test a special drug that could help improve saliva production and oral health for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE034091-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138212 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome who experience dry mouth and related oral health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Sjögren’s syndrome or those who do not experience salivary gland dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of aging cells, known as senescent cells, in the dysfunction of salivary glands in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease. The study aims to explore how these senescent cells impact the health and function of salivary gland stem cells, which are crucial for saliva production. By using mouse models that mimic the disease, researchers will assess the effects of a specific drug that targets senescent cells, potentially leading to improved saliva production and overall oral health for patients. The findings could pave the way for new treatments for Sjögren’s syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore salivary gland function and improve the quality of life for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar approaches in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Jing — Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Jing
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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.