Daniel R Clark

Dr. Daniel R Clark is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Periodontics and Preventive Dentistry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. As a clinician-scientist, he bridges basic/translational research with clinical practice in periodontics, focusing on inflammation regulation in bone healing and age-related inflammatory dysregulation. His work has implications for both oral health in older adults and space health sciences.

• PhD, University of California San Francisco (2019)
• MS and Periodontology Certificate, UCSF (2016)
• DDS, University of Michigan School of Dentistry (2013)

Research interests center on:

• Osteoimmunology and macrophage function
• Inflammaging mechanisms in periodontal disease
• Microgravity effects on bone regeneration
• Immune cell interactions in tissue repair

Recent publications reveal trends in age-related immune dysfunction affecting periodontal health and fracture healing, with emphasis on macrophage polarization, neutrophil activity, and cytokine dysregulation. His work combines RNAseq analysis with in vivo models to address clinical challenges in dental implant placement and trauma recovery.

Scientific recognition includes:

• NIH grant K08DE029505
• IADR and AAP awards
• AAPF Fellowship

Current funded research explores macrophage-targeted therapies for age-related healing deficits and spaceflight medical applications. The laboratory employs flow cytometry, animal models, and immunomodulatory approaches to develop clinical solutions.