Developing new genetic tools to study Chlamydia infections
Official title: Advanced Genetic Tools for Studying Chlamydia
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10911787 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new genetic tools to help scientists learn more about Chlamydia, a common cause of sexually transmitted infections and eye problems, so they can better understand how it behaves and how to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,804 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI169341-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911787 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals at risk for Chlamydia infections, particularly sexually active adults and adolescents.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for Chlamydia infections or those who have already been effectively treated may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced genetic tools to better understand Chlamydia trachomatis, a major cause of sexually transmitted infections and infectious blindness. The project aims to develop a tightly regulated promoter system that allows researchers to control gene expression in Chlamydia, which is crucial for studying its biology and pathogenicity. By utilizing established systems from E. coli, the researchers will create new methods for manipulating Chlamydia's genetic material, enhancing our ability to investigate its behavior and treatment responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for diagnosing and treating Chlamydia infections, ultimately reducing their prevalence and associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: While the development of genetic tools for studying bacteria is a common approach, the specific application to Chlamydia trachomatis using these novel systems is relatively untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maurelli, Anthony T — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Maurelli, Anthony T
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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.