How C. difficile spores 'wake up' to cause infection
Regulation of Spore Germination in Clostridioides difficile
['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11127553
This project explores how C. difficile spores sense bile acids and amino acids to 'wake up' and cause infections, with the goal of helping people at risk of C. difficile.
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-11127553 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, scientists are working to understand the proteins that tell C. difficile spores when to germinate and start an infection. In the lab they will study two proteins, CspC and CspA, to see how they interact and whether they bind the small molecules (bile acids, amino acids, calcium) that trigger germination. The team will use biochemical tests and mutant bacteria to map how these signals are integrated. By learning the exact molecular steps, researchers hope to identify ways to block spores from waking up and causing disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients; its findings could eventually benefit people who have had C. difficile infection or who are at high risk (recent antibiotics or hospitalization).
Not a fit: Because this is laboratory research rather than a clinical trial, patients seeking an immediate treatment or those with unrelated conditions will not receive direct benefit now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to prevent C. difficile spores from germinating and lower the risk of infection.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genetic studies identified CspA and CspC as important, but direct biochemical evidence and strategies to block germination remain novel and untested in patients.
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.