Understanding the Elusive Bacteria in Your Mouth
Domestication and characterization of TM7-the most elusive oral phylum
['FUNDING_R01'] · ADA FORSYTH INSTITUTE, INC. · NIH-11177889
This project aims to understand a tiny, mysterious bacteria called TM7 that lives in our mouths and becomes more common when gums are inflamed.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ADA FORSYTH INSTITUTE, INC. (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Somerville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11177889 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are learning more about a very small bacteria, TM7, which is found in everyone's mouth but increases significantly during gum inflammation like gingivitis and periodontitis. Previously, we successfully isolated a specific type of TM7 and found it lives on the surface of another bacteria. Now, we are exploring how these two bacteria interact, from their initial connection to how they live together. By understanding these interactions, we hope to uncover the secrets of TM7's unique biology and its role in oral health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients experiencing gum inflammation, gingivitis, or periodontitis may find this research particularly relevant to their condition.
Not a fit: Patients without oral inflammation or those seeking immediate clinical treatment for existing conditions would not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat gum inflammation and periodontitis by targeting these specific bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work successfully isolated this elusive bacteria, and this project builds upon that success to explore its complex interactions, making it a novel extension of prior findings.
Where this research is happening
Somerville, UNITED STATES
- ADA FORSYTH INSTITUTE, INC. — Somerville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HE, XUESONG — ADA FORSYTH INSTITUTE, INC.
- Study coordinator: HE, XUESONG
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.