Grant: Project Grant

Infections of gum tissues are high prevalence diseases of North American adult populations, affecting >30% of individuals over the age of 35 years. These infections cause inflammation of the gums and the supporting tissues of the teeth, which are collectively known as the periodontium. When untreated, periodontal diseases lead to irreversible loss of the bone and soft tissues that support the teeth and ultimately, tooth loss. Current methods for treating gum diseases rely on frequent cleaning of the teeth and in certain cases, surgical approaches. Surgery has only limited effectiveness in many cases and does not reliably stop the progression of the disease. In this proposal, we will examine a novel control system that regulates inflammatory destruction of connective tissues, including gum and periodontal tissues. We have identified a regulatory system in cells that regulates the ability of cells in connective tissue to break down the connective tissue matrix. This regulatory system is critically involved in two different types of connective tissue break down and consequently, the ability to regulate this system opens up new possibilities for inhibiting breakdown of gum and other types of tissues that are affected by inflammation.