How a specific cholesterol compound affects bacterial infections
Oxysterol Regulation of Microbial Pathogenesis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11056132
This study is looking at how a substance called 25-Hydroxycholesterol can help stop the spread of harmful bacteria like Listeria and Shigella, and it aims to find out how it affects cholesterol in our cells to boost our immune system against these infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056132 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of 25-Hydroxycholesterol (25HC) in inhibiting the spread of harmful bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes and Shigella flexneri. It explores how this compound influences cholesterol levels in cells, which may enhance the immune response against these pathogens. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind cholesterol mobilization and its impact on the body's ability to prevent bacterial infections. Additionally, new technologies will be developed to observe cholesterol dynamics in living organisms during infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with bacterial infections or those at high risk for such infections may benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-infectious diseases are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that manipulating cholesterol levels can impact immune responses, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ALTO, NEAL MATHEW — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: ALTO, NEAL MATHEW
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.