Understanding how certain bacteria contribute to dental caries
Official title: Functional amyloid formation in streptococcus mutans
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11142875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, which is known to cause cavities, creates special proteins that might help it stick together in groups, and by understanding this better, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat tooth decay for people who struggle with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $505,530 |
| NIH project number | 2R56DE021789-10A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents who are at risk for or currently experiencing dental caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dental caries caused by non-bacterial factors or those who do not have Streptococcus mutans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium linked to dental caries, in forming functional amyloids that may influence biofilm development. By studying the structural properties of these amyloids and their interactions with other bacterial components, the research aims to uncover new insights into the mechanisms behind dental decay. The approach includes advanced techniques like X-ray fiber diffraction to analyze the amyloid structures and their effects on bacterial behavior in biofilms. This could lead to a better understanding of how to prevent or treat dental caries in affected populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating dental caries, particularly in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of amyloids in other microbial contexts, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brady, L. Jeannine — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Brady, L. Jeannine
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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.