Toledo, OH - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that the University of Toledo has been awarded a $473,632 federal research award from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research to explore how the body's immune system - specifically the IL-17 receptor signaling in megakaryocytes - responds to the condition known as oral thrush.

"As we work to address infant and oral health disparities across Northwest Ohio throughout our nation, this award represents a meaningful step forward in both research and public health," said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). "The University of Toledo continues to lead in cutting-edge biomedical science, and I'm proud to see federal research dollars supporting work that could have a profound impact on our most vulnerable - our babies, children, and families."

The three-year study, led by Dr. Heather Raquel Conti, will examine how specialized immune responses in the mouth protect against fungal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as infants and immunocompromised individuals. This work holds potential to improve prevention and treatment strategies for a condition that disproportionately affects infants and can contribute to broader issues related to infant mortality and early childhood health.

This award will not only support critical research but also enhance local scientific capabilities, provide new training opportunities for students and early-career scientists in the region, and bolster Northwest Ohio's leadership in public health innovation.