Understanding the role of microbial changes in gum disease progression
Official title: Defining Dysbiosis and Mechanisms of Periodontitis Progression and Stability
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11091621 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your mouth can affect gum disease, specifically periodontitis, and aims to find out which types of bacteria might show if the disease is getting worse or staying the same, so that better treatments can be developed for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 17, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $621,437 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033033-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091621 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing periodontitis or those at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without periodontitis or those who are not adults may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in the microbial community in the mouth can lead to periodontitis, a common cause of tooth loss. By analyzing samples from a biobank of patients with periodontitis, the study aims to identify specific microbial signatures that indicate whether the disease is progressing or stable. The researchers will use advanced computational methods to predict these changes and understand the mechanisms behind periodontal destruction. This approach leverages existing clinical data to provide insights that could improve patient management and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for periodontitis, ultimately reducing tooth loss and associated health risks.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbial communities in relation to periodontal disease, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teles, Flavia Rocha — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Teles, Flavia Rocha
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding mouth bacteria linked to gum disease getting worse or staying stable
This project looks at mouth bacteria over time in adults with chronic gum disease to find patterns that predict when the disease will worsen or remain stable.
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From Symbiosis to Dysbiosis: How Resolving Inflammation Could Restore Your Mouth’s Balance
This grant explores how turning off the harmful inflammation in periodontitis and promoting natural healing could help restore the mouth’s healthy balance.
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This project looks at how HIV, its treatment, and immune changes may cause jawbone and tooth loss in people living with HIV.
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.