Contact: Dr. R. Dwayne Lunsford, 301-594-2421, lunsfordr@nidcr.nih.gov
The Microbiology Program supports extramural basic and translational research on the role of oral microbes in health and disease.
Four broad scientific areas provide the basis for rapid development of knowledge of the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral infectious diseases. These interrelated areas are:
- Biofilms and Microbial Ecology
- Microbial Genomics and Metagenomics
- Microbial Virulence and Disease Pathogenesis
- Prevention and Treatment
In addition, this program encourages research that is responsive to the NIH Roadmap Initiatives.
Biofilms and Microbial Ecology
Infections emerge within the oral cavity based on the capacity of microbial pathogens to adapt to the unique oral environment. Research relevant to this area includes studies on:
- Formation and eradication of oral biofilms
- Host dietary changes that affect the emergence of infectious agents
- Horizontal gene exchange that increases genetic diversity and antibiotic resistance
- Microbial stress responses in vivo
- Stimulation of cell density-dependent gene expression
- Increased virulence of organisms through interaction with one or more avirulent organisms
- Environmental selection of new genetic strains and variants
Research directed towards transmission of oral microbial pathogens is central to developing public health strategies to prevent their spread.
Microbial Genomics, Metagenomics and Proteomics
Sequence analysis of the entire genome and proteome promises to yield a comprehensive picture of the structure and function of oral microorganisms and host tissues. Genome and proteome analysis may elucidate previously unrecognized pathogenic mechanisms that can be blocked by drug therapies and immunogenic components ideal for vaccine development. In addition, data from these studies enable extensive comparisons to be made between bacterial genera and species, thereby identifying the genetic basis for virulence and ability to survive in the oral cavity.
Applicants are encouraged to contact the program well in advance of preparing an application to determine Institute interest in and capacity to support a sequencing or proteomics project. For more information on sequencing projects and Institute policy, please visit the following web site.
Oral Microbe Genomics Resources:
- NIDCR Oral Microbe Microarray Initiative (NOMMI)
- Oral Pathogen Sequence Databases (ORALGEN)
- Human Oral Microbiome Database (HOMD)
Microbial Virulence and Pathogenesis
Projects in this area apply the latest molecular and biochemical techniques to identify and characterize specific microbial products or components involved in virulence and disease pathogenesis. Virulence of a microorganism is determined by its capacity to:
- Adhere to and invade host tissues
- Initiate host cell death, growth or cytokine production
- Induce inflammation
- Release factors that destroy host tissue
- Or evade or destroy the host defense response
Areas of Needed Research:
- Studies that characterize virulence factors by using, for example, in vivo expression technology and novel animal model systems
- Research on the complex interactions involved in mixed microbial infections
- Studies that delineate the biological mechanisms involved in increased susceptibility to infection induced by risk factors such as tobacco use and co-morbidities, such as diabetes
- Research on the associations between oral infection and systemic diseases
- Research on antibiotic resistance, a growing concern for all medical professions
Prevention and Treatment
Dental caries and periodontitis may be prevented or treated using the principles of infectious disease.
Areas of Needed Research:
- Specific approaches to selectively reduce the pathogenic flora without altering the normal commensal flora
- Improvements in diagnosis of pathogens and pathogenesis, which may lead to significant advances in early intervention
Future Directions
Areas of Needed Research:
- Mathematical modeling
- Bioinformatics
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics and Metagenomics
- Proteomics
- Host-Pathogen Interactions
- Beneficial effects of commensal flora
- Improved animal and in vitro models of oral infectious disease
Additional Information
For further information about the NIDCR Microbiology Program, please contact:
R. Dwayne Lunsford, Ph.D.
Director, Microbiology Program
Integrative Biology and Infectious Diseases Branch-DER
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
6701 Democracy Blvd., Rm. 626
Bethesda, MD 20892-4878
(20817 for express deliveries)
Telephone: (301) 594-2421
Fax: (301) 480-8319
E-mail: lunsfordr@nidcr.nih.gov