Using specific cells to help regenerate periodontal tissue
Official title: Harnessing PRX1 expressing cells for endogenous periodontal regeneration
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11167625 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special cells that can help heal gum tissue damaged by periodontal disease, with the hope of finding better treatments for people dealing with this common dental issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | August 12, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $574,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032696-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167625 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from periodontal disease who are experiencing tissue loss and related complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with healthy periodontal tissue or those not affected by periodontal disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain cells, known as PRX1-expressing periodontal ligament stem cells, can be harnessed to regenerate periodontal tissue lost due to periodontal disease. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the researchers aim to uncover the biological mechanisms that enable these cells to promote tissue regeneration. The goal is to develop more effective therapies for patients suffering from periodontal disease, which is a significant global health issue linked to other serious conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that restore periodontal health and prevent tooth loss for patients with periodontal disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cells for tissue regeneration, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in periodontal therapy.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Intini, Giuseppe — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Intini, Giuseppe
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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.