Understanding the role of specific bacteria in gum disease and inflammation

Impact of Saccharibacteria and their bacterial hosts in Periodontal and Inflammatory Diseases

NIH-funded research Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-11003347

This study is looking at a special group of bacteria in your mouth called Saccharibacteria to see how they interact with other bacteria and affect gum health, especially for people dealing with periodontal disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAda Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003347 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a unique group of bacteria known as Saccharibacteria and their interactions with other bacteria in the mouth, particularly in relation to periodontal disease, which is a common infection affecting gum health. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the study aims to uncover how these bacteria contribute to inflammation and disease processes. The research involves laboratory cultivation and animal models to explore the effects of these bacteria on oral health, providing insights into their biological functions and potential impacts on human health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from periodontal disease or those at risk of developing inflammatory oral conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without periodontal disease or those who do not have any inflammatory oral conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating periodontal disease and related inflammatory conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of oral bacteria in health and disease, but the specific focus on Saccharibacteria is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.