José Maldonado D.D.S., Ph.D.

Dr. José Maldonado is a dentist and scientist who is dedicated to bridging the gap between advanced translational research and clinical dental practice. He currently serves as an assistant research investigator at the HealthPartners Institute and as an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. In addition to his research and academic roles, he maintains a comprehensive clinical practice as a general dentist with HealthPartners.

While serving on the frontlines of the pandemic, Dr. Maldonado’s collaborative research established that SARS-CoV-2 infects and replicates within the salivary glands, demonstrating that live virus is transmitted in saliva droplets. His ongoing research continues to focus on salivary gland biology, exploring how viral infections and autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s Disease drive salivary dysfunction.

Disclosures: None to report