How cellular cleanup (autophagy) helps fight bacterial infections
Redefining the role of autophagy in bacterial disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11222697
This work looks at whether changing a cell-cleaning process called autophagy can help the body better fight bacterial infections like Salmonella and Staphylococcus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11222697 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying a key autophagy protein called ATG16L1 and a common genetic variant (T300A) that may change how people respond to bacteria. They examine how infected cells use autophagy and release small protective vesicles (exosomes) that can neutralize bacterial toxins, using lab models of Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus. The team uses genetic approaches, cell-based experiments, and infection models to track how autophagy affects infection spread and immune responses. Results are intended to guide future approaches that could modify host defenses to reduce harm from bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with bacterial infections from Salmonella or Staphylococcus, or individuals known to carry ATG16L1 genetic variants, would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People with non-bacterial illnesses or infections caused by viruses or fungi would be unlikely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new treatments that help patient cells neutralize bacterial toxins and tolerate or clear infections better.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked autophagy and ATG16L1 variants to infection outcomes, while exosome-mediated toxin neutralization is a newer, mainly preclinical finding with promising signs.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CADWELL, KEN HASHIGIWA — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: CADWELL, KEN HASHIGIWA
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.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections