Understanding how bacteria in the mouth interact and affect dental health
Official title: Nutritional Niches within Supragingival Biofilms
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11036953 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, which causes tooth decay, interacts with other bacteria in your mouth to form plaque, with the goal of finding new ways to help prevent cavities and improve dental health for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 10, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $163,411 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE034484-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036953 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who are concerned about dental health and caries prevention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no dental issues or those who are not within the age range of 21 and older may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex relationships between different bacteria in the oral cavity, particularly focusing on Streptococcus mutans, a key player in tooth decay. By examining how this bacterium interacts with other oral bacteria, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind biofilm formation on teeth and how these interactions contribute to dental caries. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze gene expression changes in S. mutans when it is grown alongside other bacteria, which could lead to new strategies for preventing tooth decay. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform better oral health practices and treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing dental caries and enhancing oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial interactions in oral biofilms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaspar, Justin Ray — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Kaspar, Justin Ray
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.