Understanding how certain bacteria contribute to gum disease
Official title: Two-component signaling systems of Treponema denticola
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11083090 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a specific bacteria related to gum disease behaves and interacts with other bacteria in your mouth, hoping to find new ways to improve treatments for periodontitis.
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 start | May 2, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $356,994 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033722-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083090 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing symptoms of periodontitis or those at risk for developing gum disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontal disease or those who do not have risk factors for gum disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of two-component signaling systems in the bacteria Treponema denticola, which is linked to periodontitis, a common gum disease. By examining how T. denticola interacts with other bacteria and responds to changes in the mouth environment, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that allow this bacterium to thrive and contribute to disease progression. The research involves characterizing specific signaling pathways and their genetic regulation to better understand bacterial behavior in periodontal disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for gum disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating periodontitis, improving oral health for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial signaling mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treating infectious diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Daniel Patrick — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Miller, Daniel Patrick
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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.