Using sulfated carbohydrates to treat gum disease

Sulfated Carbohydrates for the Treatment of Periodontitis

NIH-funded research Glycan Therapeutics Corporation · NIH-10756240

This study is looking at a new treatment for gum disease called periodontitis, especially for people with diabetes, by testing a special carbohydrate that might help reduce inflammation and improve bone health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGlycan Therapeutics Corporation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10756240 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment for periodontitis, a common gum disease affecting many adults. The approach focuses on a specific type of carbohydrate, known as sulfated low molecular weight heparan sulfate, which has shown promise in reducing inflammation and promoting bone health. The research will involve both laboratory tests and studies in living subjects to assess the effectiveness of this carbohydrate in treating severe forms of periodontitis, particularly in individuals with diabetes. The team includes experts in periodontology and carbohydrate synthesis, aiming to develop a reliable therapeutic option for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from periodontitis, especially those with severe or hyperinflammatory forms of the disease, such as individuals with diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have periodontitis or those with mild forms of gum disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment for periodontitis, improving oral health and quality of life for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using sulfated carbohydrates for periodontitis is novel, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that similar anti-inflammatory treatments have shown promise in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, 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.