Development of a nano-biosensor to monitor periodontal inflammation
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Development of a nano-biosensor to monitor periodontal inflammation
IRAS ID
118641
Contact name
Chris Nile
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Periodontal diseases are common inflammatory disorders of the gums that can result in teeth becoming loose, or even lost. Current diagnostic techniques are somewhat crude and insensitive, and only provide a historical picture of disease activity. By the time that disease can be detected using currently available techniques (the periodontal probe and x-rays), disease has already developed.
We are trying to improve this situation by moving towards the development of better diagnostic techniques for the early detection of disease (e.g. before it is evident clinically) using molecular analysis of saliva. We have received funding to start to develop a biosensor for key molecules in the saliva that could indicate presence of periodontal disease. The study involves 3 phases: (i) a calibration phase to ensure accurate and reproducible measurements by examiners (essential for any clinical periodontal studies), (ii) a periodontal treatment study in which patients with various periodontal conditions receive their routine clinically-indicated treatment, with saliva samples being collected over the course of the treatment, and (iii) an experimental gingivitis study, in which gum inflammation is induced (reversibly) in healthy volunteers, by asking them to refrain from tooth brushing in a quarter of their mouth for a period of three weeks. The saliva samples will be analysed in the laboratory, using both conventional analysis techniques, as well being used to help develop the new biosensor technology and compare its results to conventional analysis methods.
REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 1 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
12/NE/0396
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jan 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion