How bacteria manipulate host proteins through unique tagging mechanisms
Mechanism of atypical ubiquitination and deubiquitination by bacterial effectors
This study is looking at how a germ called Legionella pneumophila changes the way our cells work using special proteins, which could help us understand how this germ survives and makes us sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915581 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Legionella pneumophila uses specific proteins to alter host cell functions through a unique process of ubiquitination, which is different from the typical mechanisms found in human cells. By examining the actions of bacterial effectors like SdeA, the research aims to understand how these proteins modify host proteins to support bacterial survival and replication. The study employs biochemical assays and molecular biology techniques to explore the interactions between bacterial proteins and host cellular processes, potentially revealing new insights into bacterial pathogenesis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with infections caused by Legionella pneumophila or those at risk of such infections would be ideal candidates to benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those without any infectious diseases may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating infections caused by Legionella pneumophila and similar pathogens.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial manipulation of host cellular mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
West Lafayette, United States
- Purdue University — West Lafayette, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Das, Chittaranjan — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Das, Chittaranjan
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.