How bacteria interact with the cells lining the intestines

Novel cytoskeletal mechanisms of pathogenic bacteria interactions with intestinal epithelium

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11085097

This study is looking at how harmful bacteria, like E. coli, stick to and invade the cells in our intestines, and it focuses on a special protein that helps with this process, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent or treat infections from bacteria that don't respond to antibiotics.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085097 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain pathogenic bacteria, like E. coli, attach to and invade intestinal epithelial cells, which are crucial for gut health. The study focuses on the role of a specific protein, non-muscle myosin II, in facilitating these interactions by altering the structure of the cell's cytoskeleton. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and in vivo models to observe these interactions in real-time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders related to bacterial infections, particularly those caused by E. coli.

Not a fit: Patients with gastrointestinal disorders not related to bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for gastrointestinal infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial interactions with intestinal cells, but this specific focus on non-muscle myosin II is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.