The overall objective of the research portion of this grant is to correlate the specificity of naturally occurring salivary antibodies against purified Streptococcus mutans cell wall and surface antigens with resultant caries of immunity in humans. Currently two populations are employed in the study: caries-prone and caries-resistant individuals. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), parotid saliva and serum is being assessed for the level, specificity and isotype of antibodies to a variety of Streptococcus mutans cell wall and cell surface antigens. It is anticipated that the results of these studies will demonstrate the role of salivary IgA antibodies in protection against dental caries and will also demonstrate the specificity of antibodies of importance in defense against this oral disease.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Type
Unknown (K15)
Project #
5K15DE000156-04
Application #
3088464
Study Section
NIDR Special Grants Review Committee (DSR)
Project Start
1985-07-01
Project End
1990-06-30
Budget Start
1988-07-01
Budget End
1989-06-30
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Alabama Birmingham
Department
Type
Schools of Dentistry/Oral Hygn
DUNS #
004514360
City
Birmingham
State
AL
Country
United States
Zip Code
35294