The research involves a proposal by the candidate to investigate the hypothesis that increased sympathetic activation of the autonomic nervous system produces immunoincompetence that leads to disease states such as periodontal disease and hypertension. He will develop a rat model in which sympathetic activation is induced by constant infusion of brain peptide angiotensin and the effects on the immune response measured by several methods, including FACS (fluorescent activated cell sorter). He has modified a method, used for human whole blood plasma, which can now be used for rat whole blood samples. Preliminary results indicate a change in T-cell, B-cell ratio after one month of Ang II infusion into the brain and sympathetic stimulation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be developed for application to study the course of periodontal disease in the model so that is can be measured by a non-invasive procedure. Results with MRI will be compared to gingival O2 tissue metabolism and alveolar bone loss.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Type
Unknown (K15)
Project #
1K15DE000251-01
Application #
3088589
Study Section
NIDR Special Grants Review Committee (DSR)
Project Start
1988-07-01
Project End
1993-06-30
Budget Start
1988-07-01
Budget End
1989-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Florida
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
073130411
City
Gainesville
State
FL
Country
United States
Zip Code
32611