How C. difficile forms spores
Spore Assembly in Clostridioides difficile
['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11146633
This work looks at how the bacterium C. difficile makes spores so scientists can develop treatments that kill the bug without harming healthy gut bacteria.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11146633 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers at Tufts are examining the unique way C. difficile divides and builds spores by studying the bacterial proteins and cell-division steps in the lab. They focus on differences from other bacteria, such as C. difficile's use of a Class A penicillin-binding protein (PBP1) instead of the usual division enzymes. Using bacterial cultures and molecular methods, the team aims to identify weak points that could be targeted by highly selective therapies. This is laboratory-based work that could guide the creation of drugs or interventions that spare the normal gut microbiome.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current or recurrent C. difficile infections, or those willing to provide stool or bacterial samples, would be the most relevant participants for related future studies.
Not a fit: People without C. difficile infection or those needing immediate emergency care are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable treatments that clear C. difficile while preserving healthy gut bacteria and lowering the chance of repeat infections.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting bacterial cell-division mechanisms is a relatively new and experimental approach with promising lab results but no established patient therapies yet.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHEN, AIMEE — TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON
- Study coordinator: SHEN, AIMEE
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.