How Neisseria gonorrhoeae infects the female reproductive tract
Cellular mechanisms by which Neisseria gonorrhoeae infects the female reproductive tract
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-11142012
This study is looking at how the bacteria that causes gonorrhea can infect the cervix in women without causing any noticeable symptoms, which is important because it can help explain why some women don’t realize they have an infection and may face serious health issues later on.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11142012 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae infects the female reproductive tract, particularly focusing on the mechanisms that allow it to colonize the cervix without triggering an immune response. The study utilizes an ex vivo model that mimics natural infection conditions using human cervical tissue, enabling researchers to observe the interactions between the bacteria and the immune system. By understanding these processes, the research aims to shed light on why many women experience asymptomatic infections, which can lead to severe complications like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are at risk of or currently experiencing asymptomatic Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have symptomatic gonorrhea or those who are not female may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for diagnosing and treating gonorrhea, particularly in women who are asymptomatic.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial infections using similar ex vivo models, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK — COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SONG, WENXIA — UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK
- Study coordinator: SONG, WENXIA
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.