How Fusobacterium nucleatum affects diseases like preterm birth and colorectal cancer
Metabolic modulation of Fusobacterium nucleatum virulence
This study is looking at how a specific type of bacteria, which is often found in dental plaque, might contribute to serious health issues like preterm birth and colorectal cancer, and it aims to understand how this bacteria survives in the body and how a certain compound affects its behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11068240 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Fusobacterium nucleatum, a type of bacteria linked to dental plaque, in causing diseases such as preterm birth and colorectal cancer. The study focuses on understanding how this bacterium can evade the immune system and thrive in different parts of the body, particularly in the placenta and colon. Researchers will explore how the metabolism of a compound called ethanolamine influences the bacteria's ability to cause disease. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into the pathophysiology of infections related to this bacterium.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals and patients at risk for colorectal cancer who may be affected by Fusobacterium nucleatum.
Not a fit: Patients without any connection to the diseases studied, such as those not at risk for preterm birth or colorectal cancer, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases associated with Fusobacterium nucleatum.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial virulence mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ton-That, Hung — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Ton-That, Hung
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.