Understanding how cells fight gum inflammation
SGK1 and the control of periodontal inflammation
This research explores how certain cells in your gums respond to infection, which could help us better understand and treat gum disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11170651 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special immune cells called macrophages that help fight infections and heal tissues. These cells can act in different ways: some cause inflammation to fight germs (M1), while others help repair damage (M2). In gum disease, this balance can be off, leading to ongoing inflammation and tissue loss. This project looks at how specific signals, involving proteins called SGK1 and YAP1, guide these macrophage cells in the mouth when facing bacteria that cause gum disease. By understanding these signals, we hope to find new ways to manage the inflammation that harms your gums.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with periodontitis, or severe gum disease, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without gum disease or those with other oral health issues not related to inflammation may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that better control inflammation in gum disease, helping to protect your teeth and gums.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has already shown that a protein called SGK1 plays a role in how the immune system responds to oral bacteria.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Huizhi — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Huizhi
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 below.