How bacteria control their ability to cause cholera
sRNA-regulated S-glutathionylation controls Vibrio cholerae virulence
This study is looking at how the cholera-causing bacteria, Vibrio cholerae, manages to infect the small intestine, especially when faced with the body's defenses, and it aims to find new ways to fight cholera by understanding the role of tiny molecules called sRNAs in this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10763882 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which causes cholera, regulates its ability to infect the small intestine. It focuses on small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) that help the bacteria respond to stress from the host's immune system. By understanding how these sRNAs influence the bacteria's virulence through a process called S-glutathionylation, researchers aim to uncover new ways to combat cholera infections. The study uses laboratory techniques to analyze gene expression and bacterial behavior in response to oxidative stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly infants, who are at risk of cholera infection or have been diagnosed with cholera.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cholera or are not at risk of cholera infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cholera infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial virulence mechanisms, making this approach promising but still innovative.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Jun — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Jun
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.