How a protein from the body affects the behavior of Lyme disease bacteria
Official title: EGF as an environmental cue of B. burgdorferi gene regulation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10948978 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein in our body called EGF affects the Lyme disease bacteria, helping us understand how the bacteria survive and spread, which could lead to better treatments for Lyme disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $162,000 |
| NIH project number | 1K22AI184753-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948978 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease or those who have been exposed to ticks in endemic areas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Lyme disease or have not been exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how epidermal growth factor (EGF), a protein found in the body, influences the gene expression of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. By understanding how this protein interacts with the bacteria, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow the bacteria to survive and spread within the host. The study employs advanced techniques such as flow cytometry and electron microscopy to analyze the binding and effects of EGF on the bacteria. This could lead to new insights into the infection process and potential treatment strategies for Lyme disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Lyme disease by targeting the mechanisms that allow the bacteria to thrive in the body.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial behavior through host interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hart, Thomas — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Hart, Thomas
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.