Clinical Research Directory

Single-cell and Spatial Transcriptomic Profiling of Gingival Tissues in Aggressive and Chronic Periodontitis: Deciphering Cellular Heterogeneity and Inflammatory Microenvironment Features

The goal of this observational study is to investigate cellular heterogeneity and inflammatory microenvironment features in gingival tissues from patients with aggressive periodontitis compared to chronic periodontitis and healthy controls, using single-cell and spatial transcriptomics combined with whole-genome sequencing. The main question(s) it aims to answer are: What are the differences in cellular composition, mesenchymal stem cell subpopulations, and gene expression profiles between aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, and healthy gingival tissues? Which key molecular markers, signaling pathways, and spatially resolved microenvironment patterns distinguish aggressive periodontitis from the more common chronic form? Are there disease-specific genetic variants associated with aggressive periodontitis identified through whole-genome sequencing of peripheral blood DNA? Participants (already scheduled for tooth extraction or periodontal surgery as part of routine clinical care) will undergo: Standard clinical periodontal examination and CBCT imaging Collection of a small gingival tissue sample (\~1×3×1 mm) during the planned extraction/surgery under local anesthesia Collection of 5 mL peripheral blood for DNA extraction No additional intervention, treatment, or follow-up visit is required beyond routine dental care. Last updated: December 23, 2025

Evaluation of the Association Between the Effects of Generalized Stage 3 and 4 Periodontitis on Arterial Stiffness and Cardiovascular Risk: the PAROCAR Study

Periodontal diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions affecting nearly half of the adult population and are associated with systemic inflammatory responses. Recent evidence suggests a possible link between severe periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases through shared inflammatory pathways. The PAROCAR study aims to evaluate the association between generalized periodontitis (stages 3 and 4, 2017 Chicago Classification) and arterial stiffness measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV), compared to matched controls without periodontitis, adjusted for conventional cardiovascular risk factors.