How a bacterial protein helps Group A Streptococcus evade the immune system
Evasion of host immunity by the M protein
This study is looking at how a specific part of the Group A Streptococcus bacteria helps it dodge our immune system, which can lead to serious illnesses, and it aims to find new ways to boost our immune response against these infections, potentially helping patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10879141 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the M protein of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) allows the bacteria to evade the immune system, leading to severe diseases and autoimmune conditions. The study focuses on understanding the interactions between the M protein and human immune proteins that prevent effective immune responses. By exploring the variability of the M protein and its binding capabilities, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to enhance immune responses against GAS infections. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for infections caused by this pathogen.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced infections caused by Group A Streptococcus or have autoimmune conditions linked to these infections.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those without a history of Group A Streptococcus infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune response against Group A Streptococcus infections, reducing morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in targeting bacterial evasion mechanisms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghosh, Partho — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ghosh, Partho
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 below.