Analyzing the genetics of C. difficile to improve vaccines
Official title: Core B. Genomics and Bioinformatics Core
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11037946 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the genes of a germ called Clostridioides difficile, which can cause serious gut infections, to help create better vaccines, and it will also see how these germs react in mice that have been vaccinated or have weak immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $254,993 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI174998-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037946 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for C. difficile infections, including those with weakened immune systems or those undergoing antibiotic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for C. difficile infections or those who have already been effectively vaccinated may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic makeup of Clostridioides difficile, a bacterium that can cause severe intestinal infections. By using advanced genomics techniques, the team will analyze the genome sequences and variations of C. difficile to identify potential targets for improved mRNA vaccines. The research will also explore how these bacteria respond to immune responses in vaccinated and immunodeficient mice, providing insights into vaccine efficacy. This work aims to enhance our understanding of the bacterium's behavior and its implications for vaccine development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines against C. difficile infections, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of these infections in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genomic analysis to improve vaccine strategies, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bushman, Frederic D — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Bushman, Frederic D
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.