Understanding how soft tissue attaches to teeth

Molecular mechanisms mediating the soft tissue attachment to teeth

['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11087538

This study is looking at how certain signals in the body help keep the important tissue around your teeth healthy, especially after it's been damaged, and it aims to find new ways to treat gum diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11087538 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that maintain the junctional epithelium (JE), a critical tissue for the health of teeth and surrounding structures. The study focuses on the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the maintenance and regeneration of the JE, particularly after damage or disease. By using advanced techniques such as gene expression analysis and lineage tracing in mouse models, researchers aim to identify the cellular components and signals that support the JE's function. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutic strategies for periodontal diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with periodontal disease or those at risk of developing such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with healthy gums and no history of periodontal issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for periodontal diseases, enhancing the preservation of teeth and surrounding tissues.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding tissue regeneration mechanisms, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.