Understanding the body's natural defenses against gum disease
Local endogenous regulators of functional immune plasticity in the periodontium
This work explores how our immune system naturally protects against gum disease and helps tissues heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141196 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Periodontitis is a common gum disease that damages the tissues supporting our teeth. Our bodies have natural ways to fight inflammation and heal, which is called immune plasticity. This project focuses on a special molecule, Del-1, found in gum tissues, that seems to play a key role in controlling inflammation and promoting healing. By understanding how Del-1 works, we hope to find new ways to protect against and treat gum disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals suffering from or at risk of periodontitis in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that harness the body's own healing mechanisms to prevent and resolve periodontitis.
How similar studies have performed: The molecule Del-1 has previously been identified as a prototype for how tissues can regulate immune responses, suggesting a promising direction for this research.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hajishengallis, Georgios — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hajishengallis, Georgios
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 below.