Understanding how diabetes affects healing in the mouth

Epithelial stem cell dysfunction in diabetic oral ulcer

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10886222

This study looks at how diabetes affects the healing of mouth wounds, especially for people getting dental work, and it aims to find new ways to help these wounds heal better by understanding the role of special stem cells in the mouth.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886222 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of diabetes on the healing process of oral wounds, which can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing dental procedures. The study focuses on the role of specific stem cells in the oral epithelium that are crucial for maintaining tissue health and healing. By examining how diabetes alters these stem cells' behavior and the surrounding environment, the researchers aim to identify new treatment strategies to enhance wound healing in diabetic patients. The research employs both laboratory and animal models to explore these effects in detail.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have diabetes and experience oral wounds or complications.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have oral wound healing issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for oral wound healing in diabetic patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding stem cell behavior in other tissues can lead to significant advancements in wound healing, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.