How bacteria move proteins across membranes
Protein Transport Across Membrane by Bacterial Pathogens
Researchers are looking at how certain bacteria move proteins across cell membranes to help people affected by bacterial infections like Legionnaires' disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11320721 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I or someone I know had a bacterial infection, this research is focused on a molecular machine called the Type IV secretion system that bacteria use to push proteins into our cells. The team studies Legionella pneumophila, the germ that can cause Legionnaires' pneumonia, because it secretes hundreds of proteins to evade our immune system. Scientists use bacteria-based models, biochemical and biophysical assays, and protein-binding experiments to see how proteins are recognized and transported. By mapping how these systems work, the lab hopes to reveal weak points that could be blocked to prevent infection or stop the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients now, but it is most relevant to people affected by Legionnaires' disease or serious bacterial infections caused by secretion-capable bacteria.
Not a fit: People with viral illnesses or non-infectious chronic conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to block bacterial secretion systems and lead to treatments that prevent infection or limit the spread of antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Previous basic-science studies have mapped bacterial secretion systems and suggested potential targets, but turning that knowledge into approved treatments remains early and challenging.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Durie, Clarissa Lynn — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Durie, Clarissa Lynn
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.