How bacteria influence communication between cells
Microbial Control of Host Intercellular Communication
This study looks at how bacteria, like Listeria, communicate with our cells to spread and cause illness, helping us understand the tiny details of cell interactions that can lead to diseases such as cancer and heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875285 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of intercellular communication, which is crucial for maintaining healthy tissue function. It focuses on how bacteria, specifically Listeria monocytogenes, manipulate these communication pathways to spread between cells. By examining the processes involved in this bacterial spread, the research aims to uncover the molecular details of cell-to-cell interactions that can lead to diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. The approach includes studying the role of organelle exchange and mechanical signals at cell junctions, which are essential for understanding how communication is regulated in multicellular organisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with cancers or cardiovascular diseases linked to intercellular communication dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to intercellular communication or those not affected by cancer or cardiovascular diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into preventing and treating diseases related to disrupted cell communication.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial interactions with host cells can lead to significant advancements in disease treatment, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lamason, Rebecca L — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Lamason, Rebecca L
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.