How Chlamydia trachomatis uses membrane proteins to hide and survive inside cells
Functional characterization of Chlamydia trachomatis inclusion membrane proteins and their role in subversion of the host vesicular trafficking
This project looks at how Chlamydia trachomatis proteins help the bacteria survive inside human cells, which could help people affected by chlamydial infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11245237 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective as a patient, researchers are studying bacterial membrane proteins called inclusion membrane (Incs) proteins that let Chlamydia live safely inside a host cell. The team will map how key Inc proteins (like CpoS and IncC) bind each other and connect with human trafficking proteins using cell-based experiments and biochemical tests. They will use laboratory models and may use animal models to see how disrupting these interactions affects infection and bacterial survival. The goal is to reveal weak points the bacteria use so future therapies or vaccines can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current or past Chlamydia trachomatis infection or those willing to donate clinical samples are the most relevant candidates for related sample- or clinic-based parts of this research.
Not a fit: Those seeking immediate treatment for an active infection or people without any risk of chlamydia are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for drugs or vaccines that prevent persistent chlamydial infection and its complications like infertility.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have identified some Inc protein functions and interactions, but translating these findings into treatments or vaccines is still new and unproven.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weber, Mary — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Weber, Mary
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.