Understanding how capsule production affects oral bacteria's behavior
Official title: The role of capsule production on the physiology of an oral commensal
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11068327 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protective layer made by a common mouth bacterium, Streptococcus parasanguinis, helps it fight off bad germs by producing hydrogen peroxide, which could lead to better ways to understand and treat oral health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | September 3, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,356 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DE034608-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068327 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with oral health issues, particularly those affected by dental caries or periodontal disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any oral health concerns or those who do not have a significant presence of oral bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of capsule production in the oral bacterium Streptococcus parasanguinis, which is important for maintaining oral health. The study focuses on how this capsule influences the bacterium's ability to produce hydrogen peroxide, a compound that helps combat harmful pathogens in the mouth. By examining the relationship between capsule production, oxidative stress tolerance, and biofilm development, the research aims to uncover new insights into how oral bacteria interact with their environment. This could lead to better understanding of oral diseases and potential new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating oral diseases such as dental caries and periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific relationship between capsule production and hydrogen peroxide in Streptococcus parasanguinis is novel, similar studies in other bacteria have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edmonds, Sara — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Edmonds, Sara
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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.