How cockroaches spread Salmonella bacteria
Official title: Biological vector borne transmission of Salmonella by cockroaches
Funded at University of South Dakota · NIH-10973607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how German cockroaches can spread Salmonella bacteria, which can make people very sick, by exploring how the bacteria grow inside the cockroaches' bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Vermillion, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 2, 2024 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $5,356 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI171014-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10973607 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in environments where German cockroaches are prevalent and who may be at risk for Salmonella infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas affected by German cockroaches or who are not at risk for Salmonella infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the German cockroach, a common pest, transmits Salmonella bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal diseases. It aims to understand the complex biological mechanisms behind this transmission, which may involve active replication of the bacteria within the cockroach's digestive system. By studying the genetic factors that enable this process, the research seeks to uncover new insights into how these pests contribute to the spread of enteric diseases in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for controlling Salmonella transmission and reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses.
How similar studies have gone: While the transmission of bacteria by cockroaches has been studied, this research explores a novel aspect of biological transmission that has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pietri, Jose Enrique — University of South Dakota
- Study coordinator: Pietri, Jose Enrique
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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.