Understanding how Down syndrome affects saliva production and autoimmune responses
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of oral deficiencies in Down syndrome
Funded at New York University · NIH-11058191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why people with Down syndrome often have issues with saliva production and are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases, like Sjogren’s Disease, by exploring the genetic and immune factors involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $322,919 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DE032846-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058191 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those experiencing oral health issues or autoimmune symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those not experiencing any oral deficiencies or autoimmune symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind oral deficiencies and autoimmune disorders in individuals with Down syndrome. It focuses on the relationship between Down syndrome, characterized by an extra chromosome 21, and conditions like Sjogren’s Disease, which affects saliva production. By studying the genetic and inflammatory responses in Down syndrome, the research aims to uncover why these individuals produce less saliva and are more prone to autoimmune diseases. The approach includes analyzing gene expression and immune responses in both human samples and animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of oral health and autoimmune conditions in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding autoimmune responses in related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lacruz, Rodrigo S. — New York University
- Study coordinator: Lacruz, Rodrigo S.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Exploring how Down syndrome affects optic nerve health in kids
A study using a mouse model to understand why optic nerve problems are common in children with Down syndrome and how to prevent them.
-
Executive Function Enhancement for Young Children with Down Syndrome
A caregiver-guided program for kids with Down syndrome aged up to 11 to strengthen their thinking skills during early childhood.
-
Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions
A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.
-
Infant Down Syndrome Brain and Behavior Study
A study of infants with Down syndrome to collect brain imaging and developmental data, creating a large, shared resource to understand how autism and other factors relate to development.
-
DS-ARC: Smartphone-based cognitive check for people with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer’s
A smartphone-based cognitive test is being developed and tested for people with Down syndrome who may develop Alzheimer’s disease, to track changes quietly in daily life.
-
Immune and NGF factors in Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome
This grant studies why people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease by looking at immune signals and nerve growth factor problems.
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.