How C. difficile uses DNA methylation to make infectious spores
Epigenetic regulation of sporulation in Clostridioides difficile
['FUNDING_R21'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11266220
Researchers will learn how a unique C. difficile enzyme changes bacterial DNA to produce infectious spores, with the goal of helping people who get C. difficile infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11266220 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at a C. difficile enzyme called CamA that chemically modifies the bacterium's DNA and seems to help it form tough, infectious spores. Scientists will use laboratory experiments on C. difficile and related animal models to see how DNA methylation controls spore formation and persistence. By mapping where and how CamA acts, they hope to identify weak points that new drugs could target. The work is done at Tufts and focuses on basic biology that could guide future treatments to prevent recurrence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had recurrent C. difficile infection or are at high risk for recurrence are the kinds of patients who might benefit from future therapies informed by this work.
Not a fit: People without C. difficile infection or whose illness is caused by other bacteria are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could point to new ways to stop C. difficile from making infectious spores and reduce recurrent infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies showed CamA is important for spore formation and persistence in mice, but turning that finding into human treatments remains untested.
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.