Understanding how Lactobacillus bacteria contribute to tooth decay
Official title: More Than Mechanical Retention: Characterization of Lactobacillus Clinical Strains Using In Vitro Models
Funded at Lsu Health Sciences Center · NIH-10758275 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of Lactobacillus bacteria might contribute to tooth decay, helping us understand how they interact with other bacteria in your mouth, which could lead to better ways to prevent cavities and keep your teeth healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $221,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE031856-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10758275 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of dental caries or those at high risk for developing tooth decay.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have dental caries or are not at risk for tooth decay may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of different Lactobacillus strains in the development of dental caries, a common infectious disease. By using established laboratory models, the study aims to understand how these bacteria colonize tooth surfaces and interact with other bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. The research will explore the conditions that allow Lactobacillus to thrive and how these interactions affect the overall health of the oral microbiome. The findings could provide valuable insights into preventing tooth decay and improving oral health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing dental caries and improving oral health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of oral bacteria in dental health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Lsu Health Sciences Center
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wen, Zezhang Tom — Lsu Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Wen, Zezhang Tom
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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.