Developing new treatments for Lyme disease by targeting bacterial flagella.

Toward novel therapies against Lyme disease through the inhibition of lysinoalaine cross-linking in the bacterial flagella.

NIH-funded research Cornell University · NIH-10894290

This study is looking at how certain bacteria, like those that cause Lyme disease, move and invade our bodies, and it aims to find new ways to stop them by targeting a special part of their movement system, which could lead to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCornell University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ithaca, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894290 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain bacteria, including those that cause Lyme disease, use their flagella to move and invade human tissues. The team aims to investigate a specific amino acid cross-link that strengthens the flagella, which may contribute to the bacteria's ability to cause disease. By exploring the structure and function of this cross-link, the researchers hope to develop new drugs that can inhibit this process, potentially leading to more effective treatments for Lyme disease. Patients may benefit from these novel therapies if they are successful in reducing the severity or duration of the disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease or those experiencing symptoms related to this condition.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Lyme disease or related spirochetal infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that more effectively treat Lyme disease and reduce its long-term health impacts.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting bacterial flagella is promising, it is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in the context of Lyme disease.

Where this research is happening

Ithaca, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.