How cockroaches spread Salmonella bacteria
Official title: Biological vector borne transmission of Salmonella by cockroaches
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11249411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how German cockroaches can spread Salmonella bacteria, which can make people very sick, by figuring out how the bacteria might grow inside the cockroaches instead of just hitching a ride, helping us understand more about how these pests can cause foodborne illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $355,316 |
| NIH project number | 7R01AI171014-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11249411 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 are not exposed to environments with German cockroaches or who do not have a risk of Salmonella infection 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 the bacteria actively replicating within the cockroach's digestive system rather than just being passively carried. 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.
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: Previous research has shown that understanding the biological transmission of pathogens by insects can lead to significant advancements in public health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pietri, Jose Enrique — Purdue University
- 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.