How Chlamydia reshapes cells to survive and get nutrients
Regulation of cytoskeletal reorganization by a single effector during Chlamydia infection
['FUNDING_R03'] · THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11233246
This project looks at how a single Chlamydia protein rearranges human cells to help the bacteria survive, which matters for people affected by Chlamydia infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R03'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11233246 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are examining how Chlamydia trachomatis uses one bacterial protein (InaC/CT813) to build different internal scaffolds of actin and microtubules around the compartment where it lives. They will use lab-grown human cells and animal models to see how each scaffold helps the bacteria access host lipids and avoid early rupture. The team will alter the InaC protein and host cell modifications to pinpoint which interactions are critical for bacterial survival. Results could suggest biological targets to prevent tissue damage and long-term reproductive consequences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most relevant to this research include sexually active individuals and reproductive-age people with a history of Chlamydia infection or repeated infections.
Not a fit: People with infections caused by other organisms or those seeking immediate clinical treatment will not directly benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for drugs or vaccines that reduce Chlamydia survival and lower the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown Chlamydia manipulates the host cytoskeleton, but coordinating distinct scaffolds through a single effector protein is a newer concept with limited direct testing.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PAUMET, FABIENNE MICHELLE — THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PAUMET, FABIENNE MICHELLE
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: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus, Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Bacterial Venereal Diseases