Understanding how oral bacteria adapt and transfer genes
Official title: Mechanisms of Integrative and Conjugative Elements in Oral Bacteria
Funded at Arkansas State University · NIH-11167750 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a common bacteria in your mouth, called Streptococcus mutans, changes and learns to survive better, which can lead to cavities and make it harder to treat with antibiotics, and it hopes to find ways to help prevent dental problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arkansas State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (State University, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $350,948 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033403-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167750 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages, particularly those at risk for dental caries or with concerns about antibiotic resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have dental issues or are not concerned about antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the oral bacterium Streptococcus mutans adapts to its environment and develops traits that may contribute to dental caries. It focuses on the mechanisms by which this bacterium acquires new DNA from its surroundings, which can enhance its survival and resistance to antibiotics. The study examines mobile genetic elements that facilitate this gene transfer and their role in the bacterium's ability to thrive under various ecological pressures. By understanding these processes, researchers aim to uncover potential targets for preventing dental caries and managing antibiotic resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing dental caries and combating antibiotic resistance in oral bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding gene transfer mechanisms in bacteria, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Arkansas State University
State University, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shields, Robert Colquhoun — Arkansas State University
- Study coordinator: Shields, Robert Colquhoun
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Identifying genes in the bacteria that cause dental cavities
This study is looking at how certain genes in the bacteria that cause cavities help them stick together and form protective layers, which could lead to new ways to prevent and treat tooth decay.
-
Creating new oral treatments for ulcerative colitis using plant cells
This study is exploring a new way to create oral medications for people with ulcerative colitis by using proteins made in plant cells, which could lead to better treatments with fewer side effects.
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.