Using engineered bacteria to treat gum disease.
Engineered Cytokine-Secreting Bacteria to Treat Periodontitis.
This study is testing a new treatment for gum disease that uses specially modified bacteria to help reduce inflammation and promote healing right where it's needed in your mouth, making it potentially more effective than regular treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10987827 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel treatment for periodontitis, a common gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. The approach involves using genetically-engineered bacteria that can secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines, which may help modulate the immune response and promote healing in the affected tissues. By encapsulating these engineered bacteria in biocompatible materials, the treatment aims to deliver therapeutic agents directly to the site of inflammation in the mouth. This localized delivery could enhance the effectiveness of the treatment compared to standard methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 30 years old who are diagnosed with periodontitis, particularly those with severe cases or dysregulated immune responses.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have periodontitis or those with other unrelated dental issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from periodontitis, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered probiotics for treating inflammatory conditions, suggesting that this approach may be viable for periodontitis as well.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Chun-Teh — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lee, Chun-Teh
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.